A YOUNG man who turned his life around with help from charity The Prince’s Trust was crowned winner at a royal awards ceremony.

Lewis Cassidy, 22, hit rock bottom a few years ago when drug and alcohol abuse saw him on the streets.

Homeless for six months, he spent time sleeping on the streets or bunking down on the couches of friends.

His life was spiralling out of control and he was unable to attend college or get a job.

The former Rainford High pupil’s health was also in serious jeopardy.

But after getting help he changed his ways and the turnaround was capped by him lifting the British Land Flying Start Award in The Prince’s Trust & Samsung Celebrate Success Awards, held at FACT in Liverpool.

It recognises young people who have overcome challenges and have gone on to secure a job.

Lewis’ change came after he was referred to The Prince’s Trust Team programme by a local youth worker.

It helps young people gain key workplace skills and confidence.

As the course progressed, Lewis, from Eccleston, realise that there were people who cared, which provided the motivation for him to change.

Beating his addiction and his demons, he came to appreciate the values of teamwork, leadership and graft.

He has gone on to become an apprentice electro-mechanical engineer and is a regular volunteer with a youth organisation.