An MP has lauded the entrepreneurial spirit of a university graduate who beat the unemployment crisis by launching her own business.

Alexandra Bailie, of Coombe Lane, South Croydon, started selling homemade jams and chutneys after failing to find a job after university.

The 25-year-old who graduating from Edinburgh's Heriot-Watt University, set up her company Bailie & Rose using a £4,000 Government loan.

Richard Ottaway, Croydon South MP, said: “Alex is a shining example of how to turn a potentially desperate situation into an exciting success story.

"Her attitude is precisely what we need to see us through these tough economic times."

James Caan, chairman of the Start-Up Loans scheme, said: "Providing opportunities for people like Alex is everything this programme is about.

“I’m delighted to see so many young people now looking at entrepreneurship as a viable career path and hope to see thousands more in the next three years.”