Express & Star

Forklift driver becomes key community player masterminding his own business

It is a long way from starting out as a forklift truck driver to becoming a key player in a community charity and running your own business.

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Project manager John Cook pictured when the project was launched, around 2009

But that is the journey undertaken by John Cook, one of the founder members of the Brierley Hill Project.

Based in Bank Street Brierley Hill, the project's mission is to provide targeted life support and mentoring for the people from Brierley Hill and the wider Dudley area.

John describes it as a place of safety and warmth for those suffering temporary difficulties in their lives.

The Brierley Hill Project (BHP) envisions a community in which every person experiences hope, belonging, purpose and personal value.

Through building strong relationships and being an active participant in the community BHP says it hopes that each person will reach their full potential being capable of making informed and responsible decisions.

It started 15 years ago at Amblecote Community Church where John and like-minded Christian Chris Swathes decided they wanted to do what they could to support those in need of help.