A young man from Preston, who has faced serious health issues, has been praised by bosses in his first job for demonstrating a fighting spirit and determination to succeed.
Mark Garstang, aged 18, joined Lookers Volkswagen Blackpool at the start of this year as a trainee sales executive, just six months after receiving a kidney transplant.
Mike Pollitt, brand manager for Blackpool Volkswagen on Ashworth Road, said: “Mark is an exceptional young man who has overcome a lot of health issues and setbacks but never lets these things stand in the way of his ambitions.
“He contacted us looking for a trainee position and when we met him everyone has been struck by his determination to work hard and succeed.
“All too often young people are portrayed in a negative light. We are very proud to be able to introduce customers to Mark as an example of a good local lad here to help them.
“He’s shown he can be a real fighter, and that kind of positive attitude can only be a benefit as he sets out on his chosen career.”
The youngster suffers from FSGS, a form of Nephrotic Syndrome in children which causes kidney failure. His kidneys were removed and he received a transplant in 2003 but that procedure failed and his condition returned.
After years of hospital treatment, much requiring several trips every week to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital for haemodialysis, Mark received a kidney from his father last summer.
Mark has embarked on a programme of training and development which will see him learning all aspects of motor sales, with time spent in all areas of the business.
The youngster said: “When I left school I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, but I did know that I love cars. In fact, my first car was a Volkswagen Polo, bought from here, just a year ago.
“So it is great to be working here, surrounded by all these fantastic cars and learning all about the motor industry.”
Lookers Volkswagen Blackpool supplies new and approved used cars and a comprehensive after-sales service using genuine Volkswagen parts. The company is also a leading regional Motability provider.
Call 0844 659 5509 or visit www.lookers.co.uk/volkswagen for more information.
Volkswagen offers apprenticeships and trainee posts throughout the UK. Details of how to apply can be found at www.volkswagen-apprentice.co.uk or by contacting the local dealership.