LIFE has shifted up a gear for Middlesbrough man Gary Mains.

The 42-year-old had to give up his last driving job because of severe stress and anxiety six years ago.

But he is now firmly back in the driving seat thanks to help he received at the JobCentre and from New Deal for Disabled People.

He was persuaded to get behind the wheel again, on a trial, without losing his benefits.

The plan worked and Mr Mains quickly regained his confidence and started working full-time earlier this year as a coach driver with GL Coaches, of Middlesbrough.

He said: "It's been really great. I'm getting so much confidence back.

"When I'm not at work, I miss it. It's not just the work itself, it's the effect it has on your whole life.

"New Deal has given me a new start."

GL boss George Lever said Mr Mains was one of his best workers.

He said: "I'm very impressed with Gary and would definitely recommend other employers to give people like him who have been on the sick a chance.

"I would do the same again and give someone the chance to get back to work."