The Irish in Britain, including those of Irish descent, make up a significant part of the UK population. Here, you will find news, entertainment, events, sports and features from the local Irish Post newspaper.

AIRLINE chief Padraig O’Ceidigh has shared the secrets of his success with a group of British-based Irish businessmen and women.

The award-winning founder and chairman of Aer Arann addressed members of the Irish International Business Network (IIBN) at the CBI in central London last week.

High-flyer Padraig O’Ceidigh was previously an accountant, lawyer and teacher before becoming an airline owner.

He has since built the carrier from an island-hopping service on the west coast of Ireland to one of Europe’s fastest-growing airlines.

Over 70 people attended the presentation and heard Padraig single out ego and power as damaging to a company’s overall vision.

He said the success of Aer Arann was down to sharing his vision with all employees to ensure everyone was working for the same goal.

And it is a formula that works.

Last year the airline carried 1.1million passengers with over 600 flights per week across 40 routes in Ireland to Britain and Northern France.

The presentation was the latest in a series of events organised by IIBN — which brings together some of the most successful business professionals in Ireland and overseas to share best practice and explore new ways to attract domestic and international business opportunities.

IIBN chairman Conor Foley said: “Padraig gave a rare insight into the Aer Arann journey and how he and his team continue to build the Aer Arann vision.

“It was clear for everyone to see that Padraig has an inspirational attitude to entrepreneurship which is vital for anyone that has started or is considering starting their own business.

“Attracting the likes of Padraig reflects the work we have put in to developing an events programme for our members which provides a development and support framework for business.

“The feedback we have received so far during our first year shows that we have got off to a successful start.”

For further information and to request membership details e-mail Fionuala Pender at fionuala@iibn.com. The IIBN’s next event is a Christmas drinks party on December 13 from 7pm at 108 on Marylebone High Street in London.