Chris celebrated the talents of students at three Epsom schools hailing them as ‘entrepreneurs of the future’.

Judges at the Young Enterprise East-Mid Surrey area finals were wowed by business ventures from students at Rosebery with their vibrant tie-dyed t-shirts, Glyn ADT Technical College with unusual mashed potato flavouring and Blenheim with their display of cupcake candles.

There was stiff competition, with business ventures from students at City of London Freemen’s, Ashtead, St John’s, Leatherhead and Epsom College.

Each company was required to produce a 10-page report, make a four-minute presentation and develop a 15-second advertisement.

Mr Grayling said the project is a valuable tool for tackling youth unemployment and stimulating the economy. He said: “Over the years countless young people have been inspired to start up their own businesses after taking part in the Young Enterprise scheme and it’s vital that we continue to inspire these entrepreneurs of the future.”

Sara Olsen, a local board member for Young Enterprise, said: “It is clear we have seen a number of tomorrow’s entrepreneurs here tonight.”

The three successful groups went on to present their projects at the Surrey finals at Surrey University on Wednesday.

The winning team was from Guildford High School, but Rosebery won the award for the best use of technology and Glyn scooped the award for the best innovation and best presentation.