Sorry,
No database, to me means that the value of existing clients is virtually zero, simply because you have no way of introducing yourself to the vast majority of them, which is essential if you are taking over and hoping to keep them. Also a business without even a simple database wreeks of complacency and in this day and age - out of touch with whats going on. In short I cant see what your £25000 is going to get you apart from a second hand van and some equipment. On the other hand if you really want to get into this business, you could do a lot with that kind of money to give youself a really good start without taking on what sounds like a huge risk.
Dave.