A DENTIST from Herbrandston who has overcome personal tragedy to establish a successful family business has won the inaugural President’s Award at this year’s Welsh Business Awards.

Dr Mark Boulcott received an award for his outstanding work within Pembrokeshire at a recent ceremony, organised by the South Wales Chamber of Commerce, in association with the University of South Wales.

After being forced into retirement from the army in 2004 due to an accident, Dr Boulcott opened his dental practice attracting customers from all over the county, putting his success down to a dedication to customer service and ability to handle complex cases.

Tragically, as the business began to grow, his wife and business partner Karen Boulcott died in a car crash, which also left him in a critical condition, with severe long standing health issues.

Despite suffering a great personal loss, within a couple of years of the accident, Dr Boulcott went on to open a dental laboratory, as well as a local technical service for other dental practices.

With his son Liam, he also opened a much-needed dental clinic in Narberth in March 2015, and has become well-known for using animal therapy to help calm nervous or younger patients.

On accepting his award, Dr Boulcott said: “I am both honoured and extremely humbled by this prestigious recognition of my career.

"I had no idea I was even nominated, so to find out that I have won the President’s Award is truly amazing.

"It’s so rewarding to know that my efforts have had such a positive impact on the lives of others.

“As someone who always strives to achieve, I have pushed myself to overcome personal anguish to fulfil my vision, not only as a dentist, but as a firm believer in the benefits of a strong community.

"This award will motivate me to continue working towards accomplishing my goals.”

The judges chose Dr Boulcott to receive the award owing to his commitment to the Pembrokeshire community, in both providing local services and also creating local jobs.

They commended the dental surgeon for growing his business and maintaining his professional values in the face of tragic circumstances.