'REJECT rejection' - that was the message from Michelle Dewberry, winner of TV's The Apprentice, as she launched a new website aimed at young people in Somerset.

Michelle was at Somerset College on Tuesday night to officially launch Moving On, Moving Up', a new website aimed at all young people in the county aged between 14-19.

The website is Somerset's area prospectus and gives young people instant access to the complete range of courses and training opportunities open to them.

In an exclusive interview with the County Gazette, Michelle recommended young people make use of the service.

"Working out what to do with your life as a teenager is such a minefield so this will help people understand what courses are out there.

"I wish there was something like this around in my day."

Asked for her advice to young people, she said: "You've got to be persistent and tenacious - I always say reject rejection'.

On what she learnt from taking part in the high-pressure TV show, starring tycoon Alan Sugar, Michelle added: "You've got to be true to yourself - there's a lot of pressure to be someone else, particularly in such a competitive environment.

"As long as you give 100%, you can't ask for anything else. One thing that also struck me when I watched the programmes again is that there's no such thing as 110%!

"Alan Sugar didn't intimidate me at all. You should treat everyone equally."

Michelle also spoke about achieving great things, whatever your background.

"Your past doesn't determine your future - if you live your life looking in your rear view mirror, you won't get where you want to go!"

Moving On Moving Up is a joint undertaking between Connexions Somerset, the Learning and Skills Council, Somerset County Council, schools, colleges and training providers.

Peter Renshaw, chairman of 14-19 Area Prospectus Development Group, said: "It is a significant step forward in giving young people the help and advice they need easily and instantly."

Visit Moving On, Moving Up by clicking on the link below this story.