A VOLUNTEER from Clayton-le-Moors who overcame depression and suicidal thoughts has received an award after turning his life around.

Steven Leeming, 60, was left with ‘feelings of hopelessness’ after being made redundant six years ago and was also trying to deal with the death of his best friend and fishing buddy.

However his life was transformed after becoming a volunteer coordinator at the social enterprise Mercer House 1842 in Clayton-le-Moors.

He has now been recognised with a European Social Fund (ESF) Individual Award in the North West as part of Adult Learners’ Week.

Steven, known affectionately as ‘Mr Fish’, said: “I have a purpose again. To go out fishing and have the chance to teach others is great. It’s built up my self-confidence again and it’s all through Mercer House.”

After joining Mercer House, which receives funding from the ESF, he learned about IT, marketing and presentation and undertook various community learning courses including IT tuition, emergency first aid and canal studies.

He was encouraged to share his passion for fishing and later developed his own fishing group the ‘Clayton Scalers’.

Ally Hodgson, from Mercer House, who nominated Steven, said: “Mr Fish’s dedication to the group and to his own personal life-changing journey is a testament to how learning and volunteering are complementary activities which enhance individuals greatly.”

Angus Gray, head of ESF Division at the Department for Work and Pensions, praised Steven for his award.

He said: “I am pleased that the European Social Fund is again supporting Adult Learners’ Week.

“I am sure that many more people will be encouraged to take up learning after reading the inspirational stories of this year’s winners, like Steven.”