Being made redundant spelt a new start for Llanwern steelworker Andrew Purves, and a new opportunity to show the caring side of his nature.

With the help of careers advice he has just begun training to become a mental health nurse.

Chris Williams of Careers Wales Gwent said, "The Corus cutbacks were obviously very hard for the workers, so we worked closely with The National Council - ELWa and Job Centre Plus in our site offices to ensure we were available at all times for guidance and advice.

"Andrew is one of a number of people who took up our help and has now chosen to retrain for a completely new occupation."

Andrew, 37, from Markham, started his career in the army before moving into heavy industry. He had spent just over 12 years making steel at Llanwern, but when the future of the plant became uncertain he contacted Careers Wales Gwent for advice.

"I had always thought about a career in nursing because many members of my family are in the medical profession, but obviously, with a family to look after, I didn't really consider it an option to leave steady employment to go to nursing college.

"However, the closure of the steelworks meant I had to reassess and my wife Tracey and daughter Zowie were really supportive. I have now just started the course and am slowly getting back into the studying routines.

Andrew will now study at the University of Glamorgan for three years to qualify as a mental health nurse. The course will be 50 percent theory at the university and 50 percent placement in local hospitals.

He said "Chris from Careers Wales Gwent was really supportive. She made me believe it was possible to make such a radical career move and then helped to sort out all of the administrative detail which was required."