There's still a perception in some quarters that universities can be out of touch, but our own University of Teesside has always been a leader in keeping firm contacts with all strands of life.

It's probably partly down to its roots as Constantine College, and later the Polytechnic, which built up such good relationships with local industry and business.

The tradition remains strong as I discovered last week when I chaired a conference at the University's Centre for Enterprise. The audience was mainly composed of recent and imminent graduates who were looking at the possibility of starting a business for the first time. The University of Teesside has a high proportion of local students who want to stay in the Tees Valley but move away after graduation in search of work. Starting a business is one way of keeping talented young people in our area as well as contributing to the local economy.

The panel I chaired was well equipped to deal with some very good questions. I was joined in Middlesbrough by Alistair Waite, of internet firm Onyx, Tan Ellahi, of graphic designers Ellahi and Pinkney, and Professor Ted Fuller who lectures in entrepreneurship at the University. Joining us on video link was Skin, formerly lead singer of Skunk Anansie, and she was a revelation. In her original name of Deborah, she had graduated from the former Teesside Polytechnic over ten years ago, and later returned to receive an honorary degree. A hugely successful solo artist these days, she was very sharp indeed on the realities of the music business.

Centre for Enterprise manager Catherine Kearney was telling me about the University's dedicated Enterprise Team which supports students who come up with a business idea. They can get advice, guidance and support at any time and can then use the on-site programme which enables graduates to set up their own businesses on campus. Essential basics are provided and over 40 companies have started since the scheme began three years ago. Currently, there are 21 businesses on site.

I was very impressed with what I saw, and there is a real buzz about the place. Find out more on www.tees.ac.uk.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I'll be talking to a more experienced audience next Tuesday (26th) at a meeting of the Cleveland Pensioners' Convention Forum at the Grand Hotel in the centre of Hartlepool from 11am to 1pm.

I have the privilege of being Honorary President of the organisation, and they do a tremendous job in raising awareness of issues affecting the rights and dignities of older people. Secretary Mike Findley is expecting a good turnout and a lively session.

Fellow speakers included Councillor Carl Richardson, Chair of Hartlepool Council, Stuart Drummond, the Elected Mayor, Councillor Cath Hill who covers Health & Social Care, and John Perry of the North East Pensioners' Association.

Strangely enough, topics covered at the meeting will be just as relevant to those young graduates too. I suppose when I was 21, it was hard to imagine being 30, never mind 60, but whatever colour our Government is half a century from now, there will be some very difficult issues to solve.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Still on Government matters, Tony Blair's agent is pondering his moustache after its recent disappearance.

Talking to John Burton a few weeks ago, it finally clicked with me that something was different, and, indeed, the famous top lip was seeing the light of day for the first time in a long time.

John's now having second thoughts after being told that he's frightening the youngsters in the family. I know how he feels. Many years ago I took off my long-established beard during a very hot Spanish holiday. My own two sons burst into tears and announced that I was "scary".

I'm trying to convince John to go for the full set so that he can double as the Downing Street Father Christmas.

Published: 20/11/2002