Never too late: Launching Ice Cool Photography aged 73 

At nearly 73, David Williams is proving it’s never too late to turn a hobby into a business. With support from PRIME Cymru Volunteer Business Mentor, Nick Carruthers, David has launched Ice Cool Photography. 

David’s interest in photography began using film camera whilst his two sons were young. When they grew up, his late wife Carol encouraged him to join Afan Nedd camera club in Port Talbot.  

Carol and David bonded over the hobby, taking trips out and holidays with their cameras. “People started asking if I was a professional,” David recalls. 

Since losing Carol to Alzheimer’s and inflammatory breast cancer, photography has become even more important to David. 

He said: “It gets me out and about. You only live once so I’ve got this big trip planned.” 

In February, David is travelling to Botswana for a once in a lifetime safari. He plans to document the trip with a photo book, which he will sell and donate the profits to Alzheimer’s charities in memory of Carol. He is particularly grateful to Tonna hospital, which provided a lot of support during Carol’s illness. 

David approached PRIME Cymru after seeing an article on our website. His Mentor, Nick, has supported him with the early stages of setting up a business. 

David said: “Nick is very good. He’s guided me through the business side of things – paperwork, finances and how to run it all.” 

As well as business help, Nick worked on building David’s confidence and encouraged him to start volunteering with him at Margam Country Park. 

David Williams with Mentor, Nick Carruthers (right), and Tracy Robbins, Friends of Margam Park Membership, Induction and Events Officer (centre)

Nick said: “David has been a delight to work with, and I am sure he will make a success of his business as well as returning to the UK in 2026 with some fantastic photos of African wildlife that will raise funds for Alzheimer’s research.” 

Following his trip, David aspires to present his safari adventure to camera clubs across South Wales. He also wants to expand his business to start capturing weddings.  

You can view David’s work at www.icecoolphotography.co.uk. 

For support to start a business, please contact PRIME Cymru on 01550 721813 or email enquiries@primecymru.co.uk.