A RECENT graduate of The Prince’s Trust programme was given a unique opportunity by the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire after impressing him with his passion for music.

Sam Phillips, 18, from Knutsford, was on the Macclesfield Prince’s Trust programme run by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service from September to December 2014, and graduated with four other people at a ceremony at Capesthorne Hall before Christmas.

The graduation involved each member of the group making a speech about themselves and their time on the course in front of a room full of dignitaries, friends and family, and is an experience all the young people found terrifying.

Sam’s speech inspired the Lord Lieutenant to want to help him further with his dreams of working in the music industry, and being the owner of well known music chain ‘Dawsons’ he had the perfect opportunity.

After the ceremony he spoke with Sam and offered him the chance to get some work experience in one of the stores. Sam jumped at the chance and after having an interview at the Warrington branch, took on a placement in the Altrincham store.

Mobberley-resident David Briggs, Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, said: “In his speech Sam said he would like to get a job in the music industry.

"It was the first time I had met one of The Prince’s Trust members who had a passion for music and it was clear from his speech that he had the enthusiasm. Fortunately I was in the position where I could assist and I hope he has benefited from his time here experiencing the world of work as well as learning a lot about music. ”

Sam has just completed his work experience and is very grateful to the Lord Lieutenant and The Prince’s Trust team for their help and support.

He said: “I would just like to say thank you so much to everyone for all the confidence they have given me. The Prince’s Trust programme and my work experience at Dawsons really has given me a chance to change my life and I did not expect it at all

“As well as a lot of new skills, I have learnt that I really need to knuckle down and put more confidence and effort into things because you can’t get anywhere in life without trying.”

Mat Hubbard is the assistant team leader for the Macclesfield Prince’s Trust team and worked closely with Sam.

He said: “I am really pleased for Sam and I certainly do not think he would have taken up the great opportunity he was given at Dawsons before The Prince’s Trust programme. The course gave him the skills and confidence to be more independent and take on something like this and I am glad it has worked out for him."