Student success

So much so that they became regional finalists in the Shell Technology enterprise Programme.

Brian Herbert was such a key problem-solver for Lambda Calibration Ltd of Chorley that they asked him back to do more work. And Michael Collins won new business for Bond's Ice Cream of Elswick.

Brian, 22, of Blackpool Road, Ansdell, who is studying computer engineering at Loughborough University, also won the prize for best personal development in the finals run by Preston Business Venture.

At Lambda, he worked on a new piece of software which adjusts electrical and mechanical equipment and pressure gauges, that was giving problems for the company. He ironed out the snags and now Lambda is able to work more quickly and more accurately.

It was an eight-week placement but he is doing more work with the firm when he is not studying.

"He got well integrated into the project" said Phil Purcell, technical quality manager. "He did very well, especially liaising with large companies."

Michael, 20, of Partridge Avenue, Thornton, is also a student at Loughborough and his business economics course put in him in a good position to work for Bond's.

He did tasting of Bond's flavoured ice creams in Booth's supermarkets and won business for the firm in hotels, cafs and a garden centre.

"He is very outgoing and was brilliant on the telephone," said Bond's proprietor Martin Molloy, "He may come over as a bit cocky, but that's no detriment in this business."

Michael's personality also got free plugs for Bond's on Radio Wave. When the weather was at its hottest, he took in product samples to cool down the DJ and found Bond's getting lots of free publicity over the air.

The students placements are designed to raise awareness of the career opportunities in small and medium-sized companies.

"If, through schemes like STEP, we can encourage more people to consider the SME sector as a future career option, then the prospects for the economy in general will be enhanced."