WHEN Andrew Eastwood embarked on his business management course he didn't expect to be making money quite so soon.

The Newcastle University student, 21, who wants to run his own business when he graduates, got the chance to set up a firm with four fellow students as part of their course.

Get Shirty supplies personalised clothing, and is doing well after signing a deal with Armstrong UK, Darlington.

Get Shirty forms part of the business enterprise module offered by Newcastle University and developed by its Careers Service and Business School.

It allows students to develop an idea, construct a business plan, seek financial advice and test ideas in the market place.

Mentors from the business world provide support and specialist advice.

Get Shirty's main idea is hooded tops, sweatshirts, polo shirts and hats for university clubs and societies, bearing the university logo and an individual name or message.

Everyone in the team assumed a role in the company.

Andrew, as operations director, had to find a supplier.

Armstrong UK, on the Nestlefield Industrial Estate, Darlington, agreed to give the company a ten per cent profit margin.

Once profits have been calculated each of the student members could make hundreds of pounds from the idea.

Andrew said: "Many of the clubs and societies who needed personalised clothing for their activities were ordering from companies over the phone. Often they didn't know what they were getting, or when they would get it.

"We realised our competitive advantage was that we could provide a much better service. We could show the clubs and societies samples of what they would receive, tell them exactly when they would have it and distribute it to their doorstep."

The experience has made him appreciate what can be achieved. He said: "The course was incredibly helpful. It was very practical and helped me to think ideas through.

"As well as being a great enhancement for my CV, the course has shown that I don't have to join a large company or a graduate scheme when I leave university. There is a strong possibility I could make my own business ideas work."