A REFORMED gang member who turned his back on crime to work with youngsters is taking the country by storm with his brand of motivational speaking.

John Magee, 38, from Blackburn, is in high demand thanks to his success under the pseudonym 'Mister Consequence'.

His ‘Chapters’ programme helps steer young people away from the pitfalls which he experienced as a teenage tearaway in Highercroft.

It looks set to gain official accreditation through AQA or ASDAN and he is booked to speak at schools from his home town, all the way to Brighton.

John said teenagers engage with him because they identify with his life, experiences and choices.

It has led to link-ups with Blackburn College, Blackburn Rovers Community Trust and Training 2000 who are offering apprenticeships to those he recommends.

Already a handful of youngsters on the verge of ASBOs have had interviews.

When the Lancashire Telegraph sat in on one of the Chapters sessions, four young boys aged between 14 and 18 were taking part having been in trouble with the authorities and referred to Chapters.

The group discussed how behaviour affects attitude, with John recounting his childhood experiences of drugs, gangs, bullying, criminal damage and peer pressure.

One boy, Pake Richardson, who recently won recognition for transforming his life, said: “John knows what we've done because he used to be like us.

“There are other projects around but they are just to take kids off the street, not to try and help change them.

“Since I've been on this course I've wanted to stay in at weekends, keep out of trouble and not drink or take drugs.”

John said: “This is now a full-time commitment for me. It's my passion and I am totally committed to help change as many young peoples lives as possible.”

For more details go to www.misterconsequence.co.uk