A former soldier has become one of the first veterans to graduate from a new business that trains up ex-servicemen.

Johnathon Prosperini, from Breightmet, gained a full complement of property maintenance skills, thanks to Heroes4Hire-Handymen.

The business was launched by former RAF aerospace systems operator Nigel Blanchard in a bid to create an army of fully qualified handymen and women from ex-forces personnel.

Mr Prosperini, aged 31, was in the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers from 2001 until the end of 2015.

Whilst in the forces he completed three tours of Afghanistan, two tours of Iraq and a tour of Northern Ireland.

But, like many ex-servicemen, Mr Prosperini struggled to find work after leaving the army.

Employers said he lacked qualifications or experience and he believes that in some cases he may have overlooked due to being a former soldier.

This coupled with the attempt to adjust to civilian life had a damaging effect on both his home life and personality.

But he was discovered by Building Heroes, on behalf of Heroes4hire, and was offered a position on the first training intake, alongside 11 other ex-servicemen and women.

He found the course highly beneficial and bonded well with his fellow candidate, who gave each other plenty of support.

Now he has a full time job, a company vehicle and tools and a potential career.

He said: “I am extremely happy with the path my life has now taken and the whole cohort have had their lives changed for the better

Mr Blanchard joined the RAF aged just 16 in 1979 and has worked extensively within the property sector since leaving in 1990

He is is funding all of Heroes4Hire–Handymen the training and operations.

The first veterans to graduate from Heroes4Hire–Handymen and are now working in the Greater Manchester area.