UNEMPLOYMENT was the spur needed by two young Burnley men who had always dreamed of starting their own business.

Nigel Crosby and Andrew Maitland had often talked about going it alone, but it was not until the computer company they worked for went under that they took the big step.

They formed their own IT business, Xircom Systems Limited, and found premises at Northbridge House in Elm Street, Burnley.

And now, just two months down the line, the enterprising duo have secured the rights to sell a revolutionary mini PC system.

Nigel explained that Taiwanese IT company Paysan had introduced a new range of PCs measuring less than six inches by five and a half inches.

"We spotted the potential straight away. It is ideal for small businesses and professionals, like doctors and dentists, where desk space is at a premium."