A candidate in the new series of The Apprentice might be hoping a home advantage could help swing things his way.

Chigwell company owner Paul Sullivan, 38, will be the latest link between Epping Forest and the BBC One show when it restarts next Thursday (October 6).

Lord Sugar owns a mansion in Mr Sullivan’s home town, as well as the high-end Sheesh kebab restaurant.

Earlier this year the show’s ninth winner Dr. Leah Totton opened a cosmetic skin clinic in York Hill, Loughton, 2011 winner ‘Inventor’ Tom Pellereau is based in Debden and 2012 winner Ricky Martin operates in nearby Golding’s Hill.

Mr Sullivan is the owner and director of a marketing company specialising in finance, technology, construction and property.

He claims to be a charmer but says he does not need a unique selling point to win, instead relying on “consistency and sincerity” to put him ahead.

He said: “I'll play the team when I need to be part of the team, but I'm here to win; I'm not here to make up the numbers.”

Mr Sullivan will be up against 17 other candidates all seeking £250,000 investment in their business plans.