A FINALIST from the Apprentice has launched his latest product design at one of the county’s biggest gift and homewares events.

Courtney Wood, the novelty gift entrepreneur, director of website Bubblegum Stuff and runner-up in the latest series of the Apprentice, revealed his latest design, a rocket shaped baby bottle, at the Spring Fair in Birmingham.

Mr Wood, who grew up in Linford, near Stanford-le-Hope, said: “It’s an exciting time for the company, following a successful stint on the Apprentice.

“We’ve got plenty of developments in the pipeline and there will be more new designs coming to the fore. Spring Fair is an important event in our calendar, as it provides a great platform to meet with key buyers and ensure our products are front-of-mind for the year ahead.”

Mr Wood shot to fame in the BBC business reality show, impressing Lord Sugar through to the final episode of the competition, where he was runner-up to fellow competitor Alana Spencer.

Nick Davison, Portfolio Director at Spring Fair, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Courtney and Bubblegum Stuff to the event this year. It’s been great to watch his successes on the Apprentice series – it has helped put gifting in the spotlight.

“New product design is crucial in this industry and we’re thrilled the company used the show as the platform to take this out to prospective buyers.”