A 14-YEAR-OLD from Andover is preparing to open the town's first cat café to help benefit both the community and homeless cats. 

Jack Waue's inspiration to start his own Andover Cat-fe started when he visited Romsey's Paws for Thought in 2019, alongside being a big cat lover - having three of his own. 

The young entrepreneur entered the Youth in Test Valley Awards in October, which was open to 14–18-year-olds in the area with the winner getting £1,000 to start their own business and get a 12-month mentorship. 

Even though, Jack didn't win at the awards ceremony on December 2 he was placed in the top three finalists and received a lot of public support alongside sponsorship and mentorship from New Street Dental Care in Andover. 

Andover Advertiser: The ceremony night at Youth in Test Valley Awards. The ceremony night at Youth in Test Valley Awards. (Image: Public)

Stuart Waue, Jack's father, said: "I was so happy for Jack to receive mentorship from New Street Dental, we are so grateful! For us, that is the best possible outcome. We are completely new to the business world, so this is exactly what we need.

"We are all extremely proud of Jack and everything he is achieving, we want him to have the best start in life."

Jack and Stuart revealed they have found a suitable premises for the Andover Cat-Fe, which is within walking distance from the town centre. 

They will be working alongside Basingstoke animal shelter, Help Dogs and Cats UK, throughout this business venture, who will ensure cats at the café are wormed, vaccinated and undergo all necessary checks. 

The teenager was challenged to raise £250 to find out how interested the community was in having a Cat-fe and he succeeded in raising the full amount. Anyone who donated more than £5 will be able to redeem this payment for one hour in the café when it opens. 

After receiving such a good response, Jack's dreams are gradually becoming a reality which he described as "exciting, overwhelming and slightly scary".