Azure gives paralysed Neil new role
A FORMER Northumberland miner who thought his work life was over after a serious motorcycle accident is launching on a new career – thanks to a leading north east disability charity.
Neil Heggarty, 47, worked in coal mines across the region for most of his working life until he was involved in an accident which left him paralysed from the waist down.
But now he's found himself a new life in the great outdoors and is to study for a horticultural qualification.
Neil, originally from Amble, is currently employed at the Azure Garden Centre in Cramlington, one of the services run by Azure Charitable Enterprises which also includes the Azure Caf, Azure Printing and a landscaping and nursery business.
Neil has worked for Azure for the past two years, joining the organisation under the government's Workstep programmes which provides support to disabled people facing barriers getting and keeping a job.
"After I had my accident I obviously couldn't work down the mine anymore so I ended up just working in the office," said Neil.
"When the pit finally closed I wasn't sure if I'd work again.
"I didn't want to do office work, I wanted to try and do something physical."
Neil was sent to Azure Garden Centre for an interview and was delighted to be given a job.
"Although I'm paraplegic I still do a hands-on job which is what I really like," he said.
"I've always had an interest in plants and gardens but I didn't think I'd ever get the opportunity that I've had."
Neil's flair for his job has led to Azure enrolling him in a Royal Horticultural Society horticultural course which he will be studying at Kirkley Hall near Ponteland.
"This is a really great opportunity for me to get a broad general education in horticulture," said Neil.
"I'm really grateful to Azure for putting me through it."
John Taylor, horticultural manager at Azure Garden Centre, was full of praise for Neil.
"Neil has proven a real asset to the centre and we're glad to be able to help him develop his career," he said.
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Thursday 17 May 2012
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