Working as a graphite pencil artist has put Jay Pritchard in a unique position in the mainstream commercial world.

After setting up as self-employed two years ago, the Gravesend-based artist has completed 150 portraits – many of them for famous names, including TV presenter Richard Arnold.

Some of the artwork has been sold to buyers in Australia and Ireland, and Mr Pritchard has regularly donated his drawings to local charities.

Inspired by his grandfather, Mr Pritchard said: “He was the one who always praised my work and told me to keep at it.

"I never thought I’d make anything of it, but I am now well known for my artwork. I would not do anything differently and just keep doing what I am doing.”

You can see a selection of Mr Pritchard’s work on Facebook by searching for “Jay Pritchard Portraits”.

The Dartford and Gravesham Business Awards are supported by the Messenger and each entrant gets a free profile in our papers and online.

If you would like to enter this year’s awards, enter online at www.dgbawards.co.uk by July 29.

This year’s sponsors are: Barnes Roffe, Dartford council, Gravesham council, KM Media Group, Lloyds Bank, Thomson Snell and Passmore, University of Greenwich.