TALENTED Alton College art and design students impressed an experienced group of judges with industry standard work in a Dragon’s Den-style session held annually as part of the course.

After much deliberation, Alice Burgin, previously at Calthorpe Park School, and Ophelia Luck, previously at Robert May’s School, finished joint first.

Students had just three weeks to create a concept, brand, press packs, plan a press launch and additional garments and products. Each student then presented their ‘company’ to the judges.

The theme was ‘the wasp’ and interpretations ranged from ‘SWAP’ jewellery (winner) and Ocelli Workwear (winner) to street-style skate wear, high-end sustainable clothing, interior furnishings and transgender make up.

Both Alice and Ophelia said they learned plenty from the project and the Dragon’s Den session, and were “delighted” to win and receive a retail gift voucher.

Judges were treated to London Fashion Week-style press packs, full of delicately made innovative business cards, sweet treats, key rings and even jewellery, as part of the individual pitches.

Rory Nash, musician and former owner of a skate-wear clothing company, Lucinda Harris, freelance fashion PR and branding consultant previously at Net a Porter, and Katie Wall, illustrator previously at Saatchi Gallery and the BBC, were among the panel.

Katie said: “I was seriously impressed with the students’ work. I wasn’t expecting such a high standard of work and presentation.

“Some of the pitches were amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of the session, it was really inspiring to see such dedication and enthusiasm.”

Rory added: “Some of the work, especially a couple of the T-shirt designs, would sell now, I’d invest in them. These guys have a bright future ahead.”

Lucinda, who played the part of a more critical dragon during the session, said she asked tough questions to really get the students thinking.

“I love taking part in the session and have done for some years now.

“Each year the level of professionalism and work seems to increase, which is testament to the college and its specialist teaching and resources,” she said.