ENTERPRISING students will be running their own business to raise money for charity.

Four pupils at Sunnydale School, Shildon, are taking part in a Business Incentive Scheme, a competition run by Barnardo's and Friends Provident, with their newly-formed firm The Shildon Steamers.

They will help the children's charity by holding events including a bring-and-buy sale and disco and karaoke.

The youngsters also intend to sell portrait photographs, which they will frame and personalise with messages.

Managing director of the group, Chris Stokoe, 15, said: "The business idea of a bring- and-buy was brought to mind as we will not have to pay for the goods we are selling.

"The disco will be a fun event, as Shildon does not have a disco for youngsters, but we are hoping to hold a disco for older generations too.

"We came up with the idea of personalised photographs as Christmas is drawing near and they would make a good present.

"Our main aim is to raise money to help children, no matter how much or how little."

Nigel Veal, from Friends Provident, said: "Not only are the participants at Sunnydale gaining valuable business experience, but the money they will raise will help Barnardo's work with over 55,000 disadvantaged young people throughout the UK."