It was the impetus he needed to say goodbye to his childhood home and turn over a new leaf.

Sean moved to Stafford where, through the help of the Staffordshire and West Midlands Probation Trust, he landed a six-month job placement with Back 2 Bikes, a bicycle recycling charity.

He is now studying literacy and numeracy as well as an NVQ in bike maintenance. His job placement, which is funded through the Government’s Future Jobs Fund Scheme for the long-term unemployed, is up in January but Sean’s commitment and work ethic has impressed his bosses so much, they are hoping to offer him permanent work. Back 2 Bikes manager Mark Vyner said: “Sean’s been with us for five months and we’ve seen a big improvement in him.

“He seems to really enjoy his work. He’s had a bit of a rough time but now he’s working through his issues. I think everyone deserves a second chance – or even just a chance.”

Sean said: “My life is a hundred times better now.

“I even come to work on my days off.

“I’m determined to stay on the straight and narrow.”