A NEWPORT teenager who left school with few qualifications landed himself his dream job after gaining full-time employment as a mechanic with a little help from a community group.

Kraig Beresford, 16, didn't know where to turn after leaving school.

And after trying all the usual channels, Duffryn Community Link put him in touch with Bassaleg Hire to show them what he could do.

Mr Beresford worked unpaid for five weeks at the vehicle hire company in an attempt to show bosses what he was capable of.

And Kraig's efforts were rewarded - not only did he land himself in full-time employment - but was given £150 worth of tools by company International Rectifier.

Bob Barry, Development officer at Duffryn Community Link, said: "Kraig is a fine young man who has worked extremely hard to prove himself. In fact he worked for the first five weeks without any payment."

"Mainstream education did not meet his needs." But he understands the requirements of the workplace and has a great mechanical aptitude.

Mr Barry thanked those at Bassaleg Hire and International Rectifier for the part they played in helping Mr Beresford.

Dave Phillips, Managing Director of Bassaleg Hire, said "Kraig is a young man who is very mature for his age, he's a fantastic lad who works hard and has never let us down.

"He is now a Trainee Vehicle Technician who has a bright future."