A CAMPAIGN to inspire young people to be enterprising and turn their ideas into reality kicks off in Darlington today.

The town's College of Technology is taking part in national Enterprise Week, which is supported by the Prime Minister and the Department for Trade and Industry.

The idea is to recognise the innovations of 14 to 25-year-olds and spark discussion to help young people be more creative.

Local schools and Darlington Business Venture are involved in the project and companies are being invited to offer mentoring or workshops.

The week will also celebrate the achievements of young people whose enterprising nature has brought them success.

Andrew Alderson was one of the first modern apprentices at the college and, at 24, is now one of the youngest Ford master technicians in the country.

He said: "At 16 I moved to Darlington, the college placed me with a family and got me an apprenticeship with CD Bramall car dealership and I was able to pay my way. It was the ideal balance between studying and working."

Ben Alderson's enterprise helped him fight his way back to good health after a car crash almost took his life.

The teenager, from Bolam, thrived at Darlington College, and secured a job. He also became a Champion Modern Apprentice helping to persuade his peers to stick to their studies.

He said: "I just sit down and talk to them about why I feel it is worth sticking at it and not just packing it in."