OUT of work for the past six months, 23-year-old Chris Bradley was low on confidence.

But now, thanks to a course which helps young people get back on their feet, he is well on his way to his dream job as an outdoor activity instructor.

Mr Bradley is one of a group of people, aged 16 to 25, not in education or training, who are taking part in a 12-week Prince’s Trust programme that is being run by the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

The scheme consists of careers advice, work placements, a residential trip and community based projects.

So far the team has completed qualifications in health and safety and food hygiene, been on a team-building trip to the Lake District and completed a project to improve the vegetable patches at Bolton Central Fire Station.

Mr Bradley said: “When we went on the trip to the Lake District, it made me realise that I would like to be an outdoor activity instructor. I have been able to get an interview for a job in that area already.

“I last had a job more than six months ago and this course has helped to give me confidence, get me back into a routine and basically give me a reason to get up every day.”

Fellow group member Charlotte Hinds, aged 17, said: “I have enjoyed every part of the course but the confidence I have gained has been the biggest thing and has made me feel better about myself.”

The course will continue with a bigger focus on employability including CV writing workshops and help with preparing for job interviews and applications.