Apprentice TV show makes success look too easy, says software tycoon

A Businessman who spent his teenage years in care has criticised the unrealistic "get rich quick" portrayal of business in The Apprentice and Dragon's Den.

Duane Jackson, 32, whose software business is worth £10 million, said the TV programmes were "divorced from reality" and were lulling would-be entrepreneurs into thinking they can start a new venture without putting in much effort.

Mr Jackson, originally from Plaistow, said: "In my case we were struggling to make ends meet and it can be lonely." He lived in a Newham care home from 14 and was sentenced for possession of 6,500 ecstasy tablets in 2000. But he got money, advice and support from the Prince's Trust to start his business in 2005.

Mr Jackson, who lives in Brighton with his wife and two daughters, has set up trustNetworkers, a non-profit organisation that arranges networking events for Prince's Trust start-ups.