TWO Redcar men who thought they would never work again have been helped by a Teesside firm.

Reed in Partnership helped Barry Whitwick, 57, who had worked in the mines for 30 years.

He took a course to develop writing and interviewing skills and is now working as a systems clerk at Morrisons.

"Without the help I received I would still be looking for work," he said.

James Sherred was no longer able to work as a driver due to a recurring back problem. He wanted to become self-employed but needed professional advice.

Reed in Partnership gave him the funding to buy a vehicle to help him trade as a builder.