A GROUP of students have entered the world of business for the first time with a new venture that utilises their individual skills and abilities.

The 11 A-level students at Prior Pursglove College, in Guisborough, officially launched Something Special last night - by unveiling their handmade gifts and cards.

Company managing director Stevie-Lee Grant, 17, said the students had to launch a profit-making business as part of their business course.

Between now and April next year, they hope to make a profit of £5,000 making and selling a variety of items, including personalised wine glasses, cards and balloons.

She said: "There are 11 of us in total and we have all taken on a role, depending on what we are good at.

"We are launching it at the college with 90 invited guests, including governors, and we are putting on a presentation, showing the kinds of things we will be selling.

"We are all wearing suits, so it is going to be very professional, and we have had a site set up on the internet, so we can trade outside of college. We hope to get lots of orders coming in."

Five per cent of all profits made by Something Simple will be donated to the BBC's Children in Need appeal, which takes place this month.