YOUNG entrepreneurs from the North-East received tips on how to run a successful company from one of Europe's most influential businesswomen.

Students at Gateshead College met Julie Meyer, chief executive of investment and advisory firm Ariadne Capital, to learn how to create a thriving enterprise.

Ms Meyer, ranked as one of the Wall Street Journal's Most Influential Women in Europe, has previously advised Business Secretary Vince Cable, and warned students they had to be prepared to adapt in their working lives and make the most of the struggling economy.

She said: “Young people need to remember we live in uncertain economic times, but what will help them is to think and act in an entrepreneurial way.

“They are going to have to be flexible in order to be confident, resilient and know how to sell themselves well in order to adapt to the challenges in the future.”

Her visit formed part of a tour of Gazelle Colleges – of which Gateshead College is a member – which use entrepreneurial teaching to help students learn.

Vicki Hodgson, entrepreneurial activity manager at Gateshead College, said: “We were delighted to welcome Julie to the college, she is an inspirational role model for our students with a stellar track record.

“We want to inspire young people to have the confidence, skills and ambition to either start up a business of their own or bring entrepreneurial thinking and ideas into their workplace.”