A REFORMED criminal has launched a training enterprise centre to give other ex-offenders and the homeless the chance to turn their lives round.

And Darren Armstrong’s outlet Be Strong in Churchgate is being backed by the boss of Bolton-based online white goods giant ao.com, John Roberts.

Mr Roberts is supplying the centre with broken washing machines which Mr Armstrong’s team is reconditioning and selling on to keep the centre going.

Thirty-eight-year-old father-of-five Mr Armstrong founded Be Strong three years ago at the pentacostal King Church in Breightmet.

“God dropped something in my spirit,” said Mr Armstrong. “I knew he wanted me to fill a need.

“It was about 10 years ago that I was off my head on drugs and I went into St Matthews Church in Breightmet and met some amazing people.

“We’ve now got a house in Breightmet which accommodates people getting back on their feet after coming out of prison.

“But it’s no easy ride. I interview prospective candidates first, and they have to be committed to change before they are accepted.

“We also link up to the probation service and Bolton Integrated Drugs Advisory Service (BIDAS).”

Be Strong also takes its members to the gym and teaches them how to maintain a balanced diet as well as access to courses in maths and English.

“When I was in prison, I had a balanced diet and was able to acquire and maintain life skills,” said Mr Armstrong.

“When you come out, it is difficult because eating the right food and going to a gym all costs money. We help them do the right thing.

“I do not force the people who come on to the project to go to church or become religious. That is everyone’s choice. It a personal choice which I made.”

One Be Strong recent recruit is 40-year-old Andre Aspinall, who heard about the scheme while being rehabilitated by BIDAS.

“It has really helped me,” he said. “I have been clear of drugs now for a month and I am really enjoying my time here.”

The ex-offenders on the scheme receive no money for what they do as they are in receipt of benefits.

The washing machines they repair are sold on and the money goes back into the project.

Mr Armstrong is currently not drawing a wage from the enterprise.

John Roberts said: "AO.com is delighted to be part of this fantastic initiative, providing washing machines for reconditioning at the B-strong store.

"Darren and his team’s enthusiasm to provide work and support for rehabilitated offenders is infectious and the washing machine programme provides them with an opportunity to re-integrate back in to the community with a purpose, a skill and ability for themselves to give back to both their community and environment.

"We wish them every success with this venture and congratulate them on everything they have achieved so far.”