RIBBLE Valley teenager Tim Ankers was beaten at the final hurdle tonight in his bid to become Alan Sugar's Junior Apprentice.

But Tim, who finished runner-up to Arjun Rajyagor in the BBC1 show, was given a massive boost after Sir Alan told him he would 'succeed in whatever he chose to do'.

And the multi-millionaire businessman has told the 17-year-old from Slaidburn that he could call him any time for advice.

The Clitheroe Grammar pupil said: "It was such an enjoyable experience: one which I will never forget.

"It is always hard coming so close to first after such a long process, but to have been placed below such a capable candidate as Arjun makes it a lot easier.

“I wish him all the best for the future and intend to stay close friends with him.

"For me now, concentrating on my A-levels is paramount and I could also do with a good offer of employment!"

Talking about Tim’s performance, Lord Sugar said: “It was a very tough choice.

"Tim is a very bright lad whose family and friends should take great pride in seeing how well he did in such a tough contest.

“I know that he is going to succeed in whatever he chooses to do.

"Any time he wants to call me for any advice he’s genuinely more than welcome to 24/7.”

Tim set up his first business at the age of 11 selling eggs to neighbours, and revealed before going on the show that he shears sheep for a pound to make extra money.

He was one of 10 teenagers bidding for the £25,000 prize on Lord Sugar's new BBC1 show.

The Clitheroe Royal Grammar School student won through to the final two last night after a task in which he had to launch a bottled water business.

Click on the link below to read our question-and-answer interview with Tim Ankers