THE team behind a social enterprise aiming to help youngsters fulfil their potential has missed out on a chance to pitch their plans to Sir Richard Branson.

Lead a Bright Future aimed to showcase the merits of ‘The Hangout’ to the successful entrepreneur through Virgin Media Business’s ‘Pitch to Rich’ contest.

Fiona Ogg and Ryan Nicolson made it through the first round last month but tumbled at the second hurdle.

Fiona, from Sidegate Mews, was disappointed not to progress further in the competition but felt the experience had proven worthwhile.

She said: “To have the quality of our pitch acknowledged by the Virgin Business team is something to be proud of, especially with being a late entry joining the public vote with only five days remaining. “The strength of support has been overwhelming.” The Hangout was described as “a ground-breaking website and social network – shaped by young people for young people, enabling them to lead productive lives and transform their world”.

Fiona, 43, stressed that it was not the end of the project and the experience had made them more determined than ever.

She told the Courier: “What is clear is the real demand for The Hangout.

“We know for sure that this is something that young people, education and business want and the economy needs. “We’re already looking at the next steps to ensure that this becomes a reality.

“We are considering holding a meeting of stakeholders to look at a future income-generating strategy.”