THE second stage of a project to increase the number of entrepreneurs in the region has been launched.

The University of Sunderland City Campus Hatchery will nurture business ideas based on the sciences.

It aims to give Sunderland students past and present support and facilities to help them develop new ventures.

Opening the centre, Sir Peter Vardy, chairman of motor retail group Reg Vardy, said: "The Hatchery is a fantastic concept and I was very impressed with the facilities available."

For further information on the scheme, call 0191-515 3121.