Talented computer game developer Squarehead Studios is the winner of the Ebbw Vale Innovation Centre ‘office for a year’ competition.

Run jointly by EVIC’s owners, Tata Steel subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise and the South Wales Argus, the competition was looking for dynamic, young local businesses with aspirations to grow and create jobs.

Squarehead Studios, run by Rhys Lewis, will now benefit from a free office for a year, worth around £5,000.

There was fierce competition for the coveted prize.

Rhys said: “I am absolutely delighted to have won and to have an office in the Innovation Centre.

“The facilities here are excellent and there is a community of businesses, many with synergies with my own and I am sure this will be an excellent platform on which to grow the business.”

Rhys, originally from Abertillery, worked in Texas for 10 years for games giant Nintendo, and has an impressive record in the industry.

He is presently collaborating with a colleague in the US on a major project, which he hopes will be taken on by Nintendo.

He said: “The concept is well developed and not too far from completion, although I cannot say too much about the details at the moment.”

Squarehead concentrates on the family fun side of the games industry, preferring this to the more violent type of game.

The firm is aiming to expand in coming years, taking on a mix of local staff, as well as working remotely with skilled specialists.

Rhys said: “There is a lot of talent locally and I will be aiming to expand. In three years I would hope to have up to 10 staff working with Squarehead.”

Ruth Headon, administrator of the Ebbw Vale Innovation Centre said she was delighted to welcome Squarehead Studios to the centre.

“The Innovation Centre is, as the name suggests, all about supporting new and forward-thinking young businesses which will develop the economy of the future.

“Squarehead Studios is exactly the sort of exciting young business which will be helping to create jobs in years to come and I am very pleased that the firm is now part of the community of businesses at EVIC.”