POPULAR actor Martin Clunes is due to be in Bournemouth this Thursday to publicise a special exhibition highlighting the achievements of local young people overcoming barriers to run successful businesses.

Mr Clunes, star of the hugely successful TV sitcom Men Behaving Badly, is a celebrity ambassador of the Prince's Trust, which is organising the September 23 event at the Wessex Hotel.

The exhibition will feature some 30 stands promoting the achievements of young people who have set up their own firms through the trust's business programme.

The programme provides advice, finance and support for 18 to 30-year-olds to start their own businesses where alternative avenues of support have not been available.

There will also be free business advice available on the day for would-be applicants to the scheme as well as the opportunity to register as a business mentor or sponsor for the trust.

Invited guests include senior staff from Dorset Police, Dorset Fire and Rescue, Connexions, and Bournemouth borough leaders.

One person helped by the trust is 30-year-old Annabelle Valentine from Blandford, a commission oil paint artist.

Having worked in a demanding office job for eight years she resigned, and started painting for relaxation.

She was then diagnosed as having MS but refused to let her condition interfere with her painting.

"She is determined to conquer her present condition and is an inspiration in more ways than one to her family and fellow artists," said June Copeland-Trenwith, press officer for the event.

"Through practical support including training, mentoring and financial assistance, the Prince's Trust helps 14 to 30-year-olds to realise their potential and transform their lives.

"The trust focuses its efforts on young people who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law.

"Since the charity was founded by HRH the Prince of Wales in 1976, it has helped nearly half a million young people."

The exhibition is open to the public from 9.30am.

First published: Sept 20