IT seems programmes like Dragon s Den and The Apprentice are making their mark in Stevenage, as over one in three workers have revealed they are up for the challenge of setting up their own business. People all over the area are considering leaving the

IT seems programmes like Dragon's Den and The Apprentice are making their mark in Stevenage, as over one in three workers have revealed they are up for the challenge of setting up their own business.

People all over the area are considering leaving the nine to five jobs behind to follow their dream, whether that is opening a restaurant or setting up an online shop.

Other research shows that speaking a foreign language is a work-based skill people in Stevenage would like to learn, with 49 per cent of people asked saying they want to learn to improve their career prospects.

The learndirect commissioned research comes as the organisation launches its learndirect Achievement Awards to illustrate the difference skills can make and to recognise people's learning.

The awards recognise people from all walks of life, from learners who have overcome difficulties such as dyslexia to return-learners and businesses working with learndirect to train their workforce.

For more information about the awards visit www.learndirect.co.uk/awards