FORMER Newcastle United manager Sir Bobby Robson hailed the dedication of some of the world's greatest sportsmen as an example to the children about to embark on the Future Business Magnates challenge.

Sir Bobby urged his audience to learn from the self-belief and dedication of great sportsmen such as Ashes hero Steve Harmison, rugby star Jonny Wilkinson and football legend Gazza in achieving what they want from life.

And he also highlighted the advice of golf pro Gary Player, who said: "The more I practice, the luckier I get."

Sir Bobby also remembered his own childhood in County Durham and the dedication he had shown in breaking through into professional football.

He told his young audience: "When I was 13 I didn't know where I was heading I didn't know what I was going to do and I followed my father to the mine.

"There were no opportunities and no options around then, so in a way you are lucky - grasp it while you can. When you see an opportunity, go for it.

"Having the talent isn't enough, you won't succeed on talent alone. When I was trying to break into football I was in a battle with lots of other top young professionals all chasing the dream.

"The key is a determination to be the best you can and fulfil your own potential.

"That enthusiasm will give you a self-belief and self-confidence and that will give you a chance. There is a life out there for you. It isn't an easy life but it is there if you want it and you are prepared to work hard for it."