A FORMER drug addict who turned his life around to start up his own business in Bournemouth has received a Pride of Britain award.

Just six years ago Mark Johnson was living rough on the streets of London and begging for money to fuel his drug and alcohol addictions.

Today the 34-year-old father-of-two runs Boscombe-based Treewise Arboricultural Contractors and employs up to 12 staff.

Last night Mark was among 17 people honoured at the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain awards ceremony in London.

The unforgettable night was shared with his old friend and "guardian angel" Sean Evans who spotted Mark huddled in a doorway and helped him make a fresh start. Earlier this year Mark was named the South West's Prince's Trust Young Achiever of the Year and rubbed shoulders with the Trust's President Prince Charles during a reception at Clarence House.

He said: "If it wasn't for the Trust I wouldn't be here today. The funding and support they gave me when no-on else would was literally my life-saver."

After moving to the South Coast Mark contacted the charity. As well as advice and guidance the Trust provided Mark with financial help to get his new business venture off the ground four years ago.

Since then his £5,500 low interest loan has been repaid and his firm is flourishing, specialising in landscaping as well as tree surgery.

The Trust's Dorset and South Wilts development adviser David Fox, who nominated Mark, said: "He has shown such strength and determination in making his business, and his life, a success.

"Mark has experienced some terrible things but has really fought back. He is one of the Trust's real success stories and a shining example of how someone who is determined to succeed can turn their life around.

The Pride of Britain awards ceremony will be screened on ITV at 9pm on Tuesday October 11.

First published: October 11