COLLEGE students have been given a taste of life in a commercial world thanks to a competition designed to test their creative skills.

Thirty young people studying national diplomas in multimedia and design at Darlington College had six weeks to come up with ideas for material to promote a bistro.

Their work had to be suitable for posters, fliers and menus for the college's bistro, which is run by students as a commercial enterprise.

Head of catering Peter Bell selected the design of first year student Rosy Jenkins, whose work will be featured in the restaurant and around the college.

Her efforts have also won her a meal for two at the Dorchester Hotel, in London.

The 19-year-old, of Richmond, said: "I was really surprised to be selected, but very pleased indeed.

"The competition was true to life and we were under pressure to produce the designs quickly. I would love to work as a designer when I finish my course as I really enjoy it."

Mr Bell said the standards of entry had been outstanding and selecting a winner had been a difficult task.

"The winner was chosen because it seemed the most suitable for the environment and existing dcor," he said. "But the runners up were of such a high standard that they could quite easily be used in high street and commercial food outlets."