A NEW business school has been running in Weston to help entrepreneurs set up a business from scratch.

More than 40 people have learned new business skills in the two weeks Popup Business School has been open at the Motex Centre in Winterstoke Road.

Weston MP John Penrose attended a workshop at the school, run in partnership with Alliance Homes and Knightstone Housing Association.

He presented awards and learned how to make full use of social media such as Twitter.

Co-founder Alan Donegan said: “It is incredible to see the personal journey that the participants have gone on, from lacking confidence, knowledge and finances to having a trading business in two weeks.

“It really shows that with hard work, people can achieve their dreams.”

Michael Williams, business enterprise manager at Alliance Homes, said: “The results from the past two weeks indicate that this business model helps people to gain the confidence and the technological skills required to compete in today’s economy.

“The way consumers and businesses interact is changing and new forms of technological media such as Facebook and Twitter will provide opportunities for business leaders from more diverse backgrounds.”

Heidi Leyshon, community empowerment team manager at Knightstone Housing Association, said: “We loved the innovation in this partnership.

“It gives residents in North Somerset a different solution to the local jobs market.

“The school has given people the confidence to take their ideas forward, make a difference to their lives and contribute to their local economy.”