A teenager who faced an uncertain future after missing out on his exam grades has been given a second chance to follow his dreams of opening his own garage.

Grant Kirk, aged 17, narrowly failed to get the results needed to book him a place at college studying electrical insulation.

But he is now on his way to becoming a car mechanic with the help of training charity Rathbone.

He has taken advantage of their hands-on training at their motor vehicle repair shop, and now has ambitions to run his own garage.

Grant, who lives in Chesham Fold, said: “I didn’t do too well at school as I prefer learning practical skills.

“I was helping my dad with his bath and kitchen fitting business after I left school, but didn’t know what to do next.

“Then I heard about Rathbone and now want to do an apprenticeship and be my own boss.”

Grant, a former student at Broad Oak High School, was praised by the Mayor of Bury Cllr Sharon Briggs on a recent visit to the charity’s centre in Brierley Street.

Cllr Briggs presented Grant with an achiever of the month award as well as touring their facilities and holding a question and answer session.

The charity offers young people, who are often from disadvantaged backgrounds, practical training to help them gain the skills to progress in the future.

Craig Wroe, who tutors Grant at Rathbone, added: “Grant is always on time and always knuckles down.

“He is consistent and keen to get on and when we tell him it’s time for a break, he doesn’t want to go!”