FROM fine art to finance, case worker Simon Bolton's career has come a long way since he started out with an art degree more than 14 years ago.

Turning his attention to money advice, Simon has progressed through the ranks first as a volunteer adviser for the Citizens' Advice Bureau, and later working for them in the magistrates court.

This year Simon will celebrate a decade of service as a case worker for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

"I like the fact that no two days are the same," says Simon.

"I deal with lots of different people.

"One day I'll be helping someone facing a repossession, and the next I might be dealing with someone who has run up credit card debts, or is considering bankruptcy.

"It's a demanding job, but the satisfaction of helping people to see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel is worth it."

Simon credits his ability to deal with sometimes difficult situations to his colleagues, who are always available for a chat at the end of the day.

"The old adage a problem shared is a problem halved' is probably more true in this job than any other.

"You can often see the relief on people's faces just to be able to talk about their debt with someone who understands and is able to help them.

"On the reverse side, when the money advisers themselves have a problem say with a complex case which is moving along more slowly than expected we all know that we can rely on each other for advice and support, which is important in a job like this."

Simon admits there are times when he is frustrated that he can't do more to help, such as where he is dealing with a client who is too ill to work and can't even make minimum repayments.

However, the service is able to help the majority of people, and the staff are genuinely delighted when they see clients who have turned their lives around.

During his education, Simon gained eight O-levels, one A-level, a BTEC in art and design, and a degree in fine art.

But, after graduating, he found it difficult to make it as an artist and was unemployed for two years.

He decided to do voluntary work for CAB and loved it so much he learnt as much as he could and then applied for a full-time position.

Today Simon is with the authority's advice service, which sits within the customer services department, and is a case worker.