YOUNG entrepreneurs have been honing their business techniques at an enterprise day at their school.

The day-long event at Barnard Castle School involved the charity Young Enterprise, a local businessman and a Galaxy FM radio presenter.

Seventy pupils aged between 13 and 14 took part.

The youngsters formed seven companies and had to design a paper product, which they had to market and sell at the highest price.

Head of business studies Gary Bishop said: "We tried to make the exercise as realistic as possible.

"They had to deal with people who were nominated tax inspectors and bankers, secure loans and pay interest and wages.

"They had to design the product, create prototypes, market them and sell them."

Helping the students were radio presenter Michael Charles, Aycliffe Fabrications boss David Spensley and Young Enterprise development manager Mandy Richards.

Mr Charles spoke to the children about his life as a DJ and working as an events promoter in the UK and abroad. He said: "You either win or you learn from your mistakes - you can only choose to lose."

Mrs Richards said: "These classes are ideal for promoting entrepreneurship. They help the children gain an understanding of the world of business."