Eastbourne inventor Darren Schofield has found the answer to tangled telephone lines.

But solving this problem has left him with another - how to get his swivel plug to the market.

Since his schooldays at Eastbourne Grammar when he solved a problem that had dogged the metalwork department for years, he has been a keen inventor.

He described himself as naturally inquisitive about how things work and if he finds something that does not work or is too cumbersome for its purpose, he will try and find a way to improve it.

Darren, 34, is dyslexic but had not let the condition hold him back.

In fact, since he bought his first computer, he has moved on in leaps and bounds.

He said: "I don't know if it's the dyslexia which makes me look at problems in a different way.

"But I can often work round obstacles which leave other people stumped.

"I've got lots of ideas for simple solutions to everyday problems.

"All I need is the help to take them forward. I would really like to work in the design industry."

Darren's swivel plug fits in the handset of a telephone and prevents the cable from twisting itself into knots.

"The plug has been patented since 1996. People have been trying to solve the problem since 1943.

"There have been several attempts but they have all been held back because they are too cumbersome.

"They get in the way of the user or prevent the phone being replaced easily.

"Twisted cables have been a problem since the telephone was invented.

"I've found the answer and now I want to find someone to take it further."

Darren started his working life as a YTS instructor in Eastbourne after successfully completing a YTS course.

He helped to found an after-school club in the town and has been involved in the setting up and running of other clubs and associations.

Anyone wanting to know more about the project can contact Darren on 01323 439471.