A BUSINESS initiative for would-be entrepreneurs has helped a salsa dance tutor put his best foot forward.

The University of Sunderland's School of Business has helped one of its graduates, 36-year-old Sokol Abazi, draw up a business plan to start his own dance studio.

The Albanian-born dancer has been teaching Latin American dancing in the region for the past few years and at the weekend he staged one of the largest salsa events in the region in Newcastle.

Now the business school is helping him realise his next dream of opening a dance studio in Sunderland through its Hatchery scheme.

The initiative helps people develop new ventures into successful businesses by offering academic support, a business mentor and guidance from key people in the enterprise sector, along with help on legal issues and marketing.

Mr Abazi said: "Interest in salsa has grown so much. It's not only fun to learn, it's a great substitute for a workout in a gym or a night out drinking.

"Setting up my own business and dance studio seemed the obvious thing to do. The Hatchery has been instrumental in allowing me to do that. The facilities are excellent and the support and advice I have received has been priceless."

For information on the Hatchery, ring 0191-515 3165.