A MAN who has suffered from mental health problems has set up a car dismantling business after receiving a start-up grant.

Adrian Howard has opened M.A.K.D.S, in Nelson after he was given £2,000 to pay for tools from Pendle Council and Lancashire County Council .

Coun Paul White, who leads Pendle Council on business support, said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to make a difference.

“It’s great that someone like Adrian can not only get back into work but face the challenge of starting his own business.

“It just shows that when someone has the absolute determination to get back to work, they can do it.”

Imtiaz Shah, the council’s employer engagement officer who helps new businesses get grants, said: “We gave Adrian a £2,000 start-up grant so he could get tools with a life-long guarantee.”

Last week Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson visited M.A.K.D.S to show his support.

Adrian Howard said: “It just shows how far I’ve come in the past couple of months to have the MP come down to my business and show his support for someone who’s had mental health issues in the past. I think it’s great.”

To find out more about Pendle Council business grants call 01282 661679 or email business.support@ pendle.gov.uk.