One of Britain's greatest entrepeneurs, Sir Richard Branson KBE, celebrates his 55th birthday today - at least according to my trusty Value Cabs calendar. In reality, Richard Branson's birthday isn't until 18th July (oops!) but I've decided to do write the story anyway.

Branson came 85 in the BBC's 100 Greatest Britons list (although I should point out that he was one place ahead of Bono - you can't half tell it was a public vote when a Irishmen get into the top 100 Britons!) Perhaps more importantly, he was also ranked 7th in the Sunday Times Rich List 2005, valued at a cool £3,000m.

If there's one thing Northern Ireland really needs its people like Richard Branson. Capable of taking a risk and becoming successful off their own back rather than relying on state handouts and state-sponsored jobs.