STUDENTS with an eye for business have taken part in a North-East trade fair after setting up companies.

More than 40 groups took part in the Young Enterprise event at the MetroCentre.

Top prize went to Sad Cake, a firm run by students from Hartlepool Sixth Form College, which has marketed its own clothing, jewellery and accessories.

Lucinda Bird, one of the team, explained the secret of their success.

She said: "What is different about us is that we are aiming to use recycled or recyclable material in cufflinks, jewellery and cards wherever possible to minimise our impact on the environment.

Young Enterprise is a nationwide charity which provides young people with experience of business and commerce.

Each company produces a final report, which is presented to a meeting of shareholders.

Other winners included 4D Products, from Blyth Community College, Northumberland; Evolution, from Staindrop Comprehensive, in Darlington; and Ice Pie, from Newcastle's Royal Grammar School.

Another company that impressed the judges was Redder, from Yarm School.