BUILDER Michael Richards traded in his hard hat for a soft heart - and became a care assistant.

Michael, from Colne, decided to swop professions when he found himself on the dole in his mid 40s.

He took a course in counselling and psychology and then got a job after doing a placement at a home for people with learning disabilities.

But finding work wasn't easy. Michael, 48, said: "I did an open access course at Nelson and Colne College while I was unemployed and I really enjoyed it. However, despite having a qualification in counselling, I still could not get a suitable job."

His new career finally took off when he went to a Nelson-based training provider, Pendle Re-employment, for help. They found him the placement at Beach House Residential Home, Burnley.

Home owner Harry Gungah said: "Michael was very enthusiastic throughout his placement and he settled in extremely well.

"The residents warmed to him very quickly and by the end of the six-week placement we had decided to offer him a full-time job."

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