A FORMER heroin addict was invited to share his story of recovery with an audience of thousands.

Following articles in The Bolton News and Church Times, Sean Kelly, was invited to speak in front of around 4,500 people at a church in London.

The Bolton News reported earlier this month how Mr Kelly, who fought a 23-year battle to overcome heroin, was one of four people to speak on stage at Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB) on Sunday.

The dad-of-five had tried 15 times to overcome his drug addiction, but said it was only when he "found God" that he was able to conquer it.

Mr Kelly said: "I was invited to speak at six services. I got up and explained that I was broken and I told people how Jesus had changed by life.

"I was a bit nervous in the first service but I got on with it. The day was absolutely amazing."

He added: "It all started with The Bolton News."

Mr Kelly, from Astley Bridge, was attending an Alpha course — sessions that explore the basics of the Christian faith — when he began heroin treatment in February, 2016.

He said it was part-way through the course, the materials for which were put together by HTB leaders, that he found faith.

The course, based in Oldhams estate, was launched by Church of England planter Rev Ben Woodfield.

Sean is now one of the key leaders in the church's 12-Step Recovery Programme.

Alpha is currently running in more than 100 countries, with more than 24 million people having taken the course.

Sean started taking heroin at 18, when home became a one-bed flat in the town centre.

He said: "I instantly knew it was not right and tried to sort it out. I have been in treatment too many times to mention."

"My heroin use did not get any better until February, 2016.

"I have been clean since February last year. I know all the trips and triggers. I know it all and the only thing that is different this time to the 15 times before is Jesus."