The founder of the Big Issue dropped by Wolverhampton University today  to chat to students.

John Bird MBE made the visit as part of the university’s Inspirational Leadership Programme.

Mr Bird founded The Big Issue in London 13 years ago to give homeless people the opportunity to help themselves.

University professor Geoff Hampton said:”John’s personal story is inspirational – he was made homeless at the age of seven, in prison by the time he was a teenager and slept rough on the streets of London, but went on to build a successful business.

“We are delighted John is to be the first speaker in the latest series of Inspirational Leadership seminars.”

The talk took place at Wolverhampton Science Park this morning.

Mr Bird, who has also delivered speeches in front of Prince Charles, Kofi Annan and Tony Blair, told students how he launched his magazine around the world, with the latest editions being in Osaka and Tokyo. He also spoke about his role of coming up with new social business ideas and public speaking in prisons, business forums and to police officers.