Egremont colleagues have gone above and beyond to help an unemployed man boost his job prospects.

Jason Quirk, 45, was placed with Livingstone Surface Treatments Ltd, of Egremont, for three months to improve his CV.

The firm was so impressed with him they offered him extra supervised training for his forklift truck licence.

His boss, Eddie Blackmore, also then persuaded Lawson's Training to waive the fee on the subsequent test.

Jason, of Whitehaven, who was supported by Skills 4 You at Cleator Moor, has subsequently gain his licence and has continued to impressed his colleagues remaining with them for a further 12 weeks.

Eddie, who is managing director at Livingstone Surface Treatments Ltd said: "Jason's done so well and worked so hard we wanted to do more for him.

"We are also committed to inspiring the wider West Cumbrian workforce, those that are currently unemployed or disengaged adults as well as the next generation of employees.'' Jason was trained by Eddie, Richie Beck and Phil Grisdale.

Jason said: "I’m very grateful for the opportunity and the whole team at Livingstone’s have made me feel very at ease. At first it was quite daunting, I was very shy and didn’t say much, but the guys have been

great.

"My confidence has grown and it’s nice to feel part of a team. I’m much more positive and have something useful to add to my CV.''

And he added: "I have never worked anywhere like this, there were cream cakes on my birthday! I’d just like to say thanks to Livingstone's for giving me a chance.”

Lyn Osbaldeston, Skills 4 You at Cleator Moor, said: “Livingstone’s had a vacancy for a person to help in the warehouse and offices and was keen to offer a three-month paid work placement to Jason.

"Eddie and his team are inspirational, forward thinking people who want to make a difference through actions.”