A MOBILE phone software firm has developed a system to allow people to keep an eye on their property via their mobile telephones.

OTAMate has developed a cutting edge system, Phonewebcam, which lets customers log on to their home or office web cameras using their mobiles anywhere in the world.

So far the software has been translated to 12 languages, and when the firm needed help with German they turned to two Berlin students on a work placement in Blackburn.

The youngsters, Eric Matusch and Julia Carlstedt, both aged 18, were in the town as part of an exchange link with Blackburn College, through a scheme called the Leonardo project.

They spent five weeks with OTAMate, based at the Technology Management Centre in Challenge Way, and were so successful they have been invited back for a second visit.

Hilary Paley, OTAMate business manager, said: "Because this product sells all over the world there is a need to translate information into a variety of languages and to road test all applications.

"The students were great and brought a real sense of adventure to the company with fresh ideas and natural enthusiasm.

"They played an integral part in the whole development process."

Now Blackburn College students will be able to visit Germany as part of the scheme, designed to give students a glimpse into working life in foreign countries.

Peter Couch, project consultant for Blackburn College's Digital Communications Technology Centre of Vocational Excellence, said: "The Leonardo project was a fascinating project which gave the College and local industry the opportunity to meet and work with some high calibre students.

"All the students involved had the opportunity to experience working life with a variety of companies both here and abroad."