A Watford man who overcame a troubled upbringing and near homelessness to become a wealthy market trader is now helping others do the same.

Despite being a mere 25 years of age, Samuel Leach already runs his own successful market trading company; Samuel and Co Trading, in Clarendon Road.

According to Harrison Woodward, one of Samuel’s trading protégés, the determined young businessman rarely slept more than three hours a night so he could fit in studying the financial markets around his classes at West Herts College.

And despite living in a shared housing facility with drunks and “the wrong crowd”, the former Bushey Academy pupil turned £2,000 of his student loan into an incredible £170,000 in just 18 months while studying at the University of Hertfordshire.

“To see a guy come from nothing and become self-made, living in the most luxury apartments and owning super cars, and still spend his time showing others who came from similar backgrounds how he did this, was just mind-blowing,” said Harrison.

“He doesn’t have to do this. He could put his feet up but he’s giving a chance to people from all walks of life. If you have got the right work ethic and are willing to put in the hours then he’s willing to give you a chance.

“He’s not only changed my life but he’s changing so many people’s lives for the better.

“He’s very down to earth; he’s not flash or anything like that. I’ve never met anyone like him. He’s an inspiration.”

Harrison has worked as a market trader at Samuel and Co Trading for around three months now, and has just received his first investment.

He says that his boss’ chequered background means he is more open to helping others from a less privileged upbringing than his market competitors.

“To see a guy so down to earth and helping people on a daily basis is just a rarity in this day and age,” he adds.