A MOTHER-OF-TWO has waved goodbye to a decade of working in social care to embark on a career in the plumbing world.

Tracy Ward is well on her way to becoming a fully-qualified plumber for east Cleveland's housing organisation, Coast and Country Housing.

Miss Ward, who lives in Guisborough, with her two children, Billy and Maisie, signed up to an apprenticeship scheme after working in nursing homes and for home help organisations.

She said: "The decision to undergo a complete career change was not an easy one, but it's probably one of the best decisions I have ever made.

"I am gaining new skills and practical experience with the prospect of a full-time job at the end of the apprenticeship.

"I am thoroughly enjoying the retraining process and hopefully I am living proof that it's possible to kick-start your career by doing something completely different.

"Everyone at Coast and Country has really taken me under their wing.

"They accepted me from the moment I joined the company and have offered me great advice and support every step of the way."