YOUNG entrepreneurs stepped into their own dragon's lair this week - and emerged unscathed.

Bishop Barrington School, in Bishop Auckland, held a competition based on the popular television show Dragon's Den, to encourage enterprising students to learn about the competitive world of business.

Five teams and one solo entrant took part in the competition on Tuesday, to pitch their business idea to the Dragons - a panel of local businessmen.

They were faced with Brian Johnson, general manager of Asda, John Turner, of Hewitts Solicitors, Mel Lyons, of Ferryhill Business and Enterprise College, and Moira Wilson, from Connexions.

Nathan Powell, leader of learning partnerships and enterprise at the school, said: "It was really excellent. The level of entries was brilliant.

"The judges were very impressed with the standard, confidence and enthusiasm that the kids put across."

The competition winner was Brilliant Barrington Bobbles, a team of students who knit and sell hair bobbles and scarves, who won £100 from the school to put towards their business idea, as well as gift vouchers for each team member.

The runner-up was Samantha's Cards, set up by Samantha Robson, who won £50 to put towards her idea, while all participants received a certificate.