Apparently, Midlanders aren’t a deliriously happy lot when it comes to our careers, writes Lara Page.

Research published by Birmingham Midshires found that Midlands workers were the least content with their jobs, whilst another survey carried out by American Express found that British workers spend so long commuting that they barely have time for their families.

At a time when workplace stress and economic factors are making working life less than enjoyable, it’s refreshing to find people who’ve made it their mission to do something they truly enjoy.

And although many feel that current trading conditions make setting up a business or changing careers even more daunting, there are still plenty of recession-defying success stories across the county.

We used our Express & Star Facebook Page and our Twitter feed to track down inspirational people and find out more about what they do for a living.

Read our 10 short interviews below with West Midlanders who love their job.

If you’re doing something you love, we’d like to hear from you too – leave a comment in our forum below and let us know whether you’re in your perfect career or wake up with the workday blues.