A DEAF man has found work as a lorry driver after passing his test with help from a sign language interpreter.

Garry Ellis, 45, of Linthorpe, Middlesbrough, was helped through the theory and practical driving test by Malcolm Pyle.

As Mr Ellis is profoundly deaf, all lessons and instructions had to be broken down and translated into sign language.

He passed his class C LGV test earlier this month and is now working for GWC Transport, at Thompson's Yard, Stockton, where he is on a four-week trial.

Mr Pyle, a freelance sign instructor from Middlesbrough, said: "There are not a lot of deaf people who have got this licence but Garry is a very determined character.

"He just gets on with it and doesn't let anything stop him living his life.

"There are people who stop and let life pass them by but not Garry.

"He has got get up and go and he really wanted to go out and work."

Mr Pyle was contacted by City Centre Training, in Middlesbrough, after Mr Ellis applied for training as a driver last year.

After working hard to pass the theory, they started working with driving coaches from the Driving Standards Agency, in Darlington, using index cards, videos and sign language to get Mr Ellis through the practical test.

A City Centre Training spokesman said: "Garry faced many hurdles along the way but his determination, enthusiasm and hard work has certainly paid off.

"He jumped through all the hoops in such a short time."