A TRIO of style conscious schoolgirls from Ilkley are taking the fashion world by storm with a new line of casual clothing.

Caroline Clayton, 15, Tamara Kilner, 16, and Ros Trinnick, 16, have set up their own fashion label, called Hoodlum, and their first design - a hooded top with a distinctive logo - has already sold out within weeks of being launched.

Now, following huge demand for the 'hoodies', the young businesswomen have ordered the production of more stock and are planning the next item for their designer label.

The girls set up Hoodlum as part of a national Young Enterprise scheme designed to encourage teenagers to get a feel for the business world. Along with other pupils from Leeds Girls' High School they have each taken on a separate role in the company.

"It was an optional project," said company director Tamara. "We are all interested in fashion and decided it would be fun and rewarding to run a company selling a product which reflected our own interests.

"Initially we were very nervous of the huge financial commitment and had to find sponsors who believed in us. Fortunately we did attract some sponsors, plus we've had some commercial interest in the label," she said.

All three girls will take their GCSEs next summer but in the meantime they are busy juggling schoolwork with the heavy demands of a thriving new business. They are also hoping to launch a zip-up version of the sweater early next year.

The hoodie, which was designed collectively by the group, became an immediate favourite with their school pals. Now the girls are selling it to dedicated followers of fashion of all ages.

And this week they did a roaring trade when they had a sales stand at Bodies Health Club and Spa, on Regent Road.

"We started off with no money whatsoever," said Caroline. "Now we are selling shares in the company and going to businesses to ask for sponsorship. At the moment we are selling via schools and leisure clubs which hits just the right target market. It's given us a taste of what it's like to run our own company, she said. "It's been a great experience. We are really excited and shocked at how well we are doing - it's given us a great boost in confidence."

l The hooded tops, available in six different colours, cost £15 each and can be ordered from (01943) 603041.