A GRAPHIC designer has kick-started his career thanks to help from a project aimed at getting people into work.

Gary Craig, of Stanhope, is working at the Durham Business Improvement District (BID) with the support of Durham County Council’s Employability Project and Weardale Area Action Partnership (APP).

Having recently finished his degree in graphic design at the University of Sunderland, Mr Craig was recommended by Steve Martin from the project to Durham BID manager Sonali Craddock for a role as a design apprentice.

Mr Craig has been designing logos for the Dine In Durham event, promotional material for the recent visit of CBeebies Mr Bloom and is now turning his talents to the Fashion In Durham event.

He said: “I’m really excited about the opportunity to flex my creative muscle at Durham BID. I look forward to many more years at the BID, helping them make Durham one of the best places to go in the UK.”

Weardale AAP co-ordinator Angelina Maddison said: “We’re delighted that the Employability Project has been able to help Gary on his way to what we’re sure will be a hugely successful career.

“The funding for this project was provided to help local people into work and it’s great to see that. As Gary and others are showing, it’s clearly working."

The Employability Project offers support to unemployed people actively looking for full time and part time employment, training or voluntary work as well as those who are considering setting up their own business.

The project is operating in Teesdale, Weardale, Bishop Auckland, Shildon, Crook, Tow Law, Willington and Spennymoor.

For more details call 03000-262383.