A former chief baker on the world-famous QE2 ship is using his experiences to help support more people into work.

Carl Morris, who worked on board the QE2 for three years, is the Job Centre Plus (JCP) Provision Manager at Accrington-based training provider, North Lancs Training Group (NLTG).

He has been with the NLTG for more than 21 years and has helped thousands of local people to find new jobs.

In February 1991, Carl made the 'life-changing' decision to leave home and start his career working on one of the most famous cruise ships in the world, the QE2.

At the age of 20, Carl started working the night shift as a commis baker, where he would regularly make breakfast rolls, Danish pastries and croissants.

After moving onto the day shift, where he would prepare bread rolls for lunches and evening meals, Carl was then rewarded with a promotion to chief baker, where he became more involved in the planning of shifts, liaising with chefs regarding daily menu items and dietary requirements.

Carl was commissioned to bake bread for legendary singer Neil Diamond, while he also brushed shoulders with many other celebrities on board including Petula Clark, Rod Stewart and former England footballer, David Platt.

Carl began working on the QE2 in 1991As well as visiting some of the most amazing places in the world including New York, Australia, the Norwegian Fjords, the Caribbean and South Asia, it was on the QE2 that Carl would meet his future wife, Sylvia. They met in Boston and have been married for 29 years.

He said: "It was the third or fourth day of the transatlantic cruise and the captain was giving his midday speech. He usually told us what was happening in the day, whereabouts we were etc, and then he told us we were passing the site where the Titanic sank.

"There was a bit of panic on the faces of the passengers, and a few looked out for any icebergs. It was just one of those surreal experiences."

Carl said he wanted to inspire people through his own experiences.Carl said: "Working on the QE2 was the best thing I have done. Not only did I meet my wife, but it also sparked my love for travel.

"I got to visit some of the most amazing places in the world and worked with people from around 50 different nationalities; so as a young man it was an incredible experience.

"While I am no longer an active baker, I do like to get involved in baking and cooking, both at home and at NLTG. As JCP Provision Manager, it is also great to be able to pass on my experiences to those looking to get into work and start a new career."