ALISTAIR Cove never fails to greet customers with a smile and he loves his job.

There's many people who are fortunate enough to be in that position, but it took a while to find Alistair employment because he has learning difficulties and juvenile arthritis.

But, with help from Connect, the supported employment service at Swindon Council, and an open mind from his new employer Matalan, Alistair is having a whale of a time.

He is in charge of the fitting rooms and puts clothes back on shelves at the Greenbridge store.

Alistair, 21, of Highworth, said: "I've been here since January and I'm definitely really pleased.

"I like meeting people. Everyone in the team has been friendly and helpful and I love working with them."

Deputy store manager Naomi Milligan said: "He's very friendly and popular with customers and is part of our team here.

"We try to vary his role as much as we can and we focused on what he could do, rather than what he couldn't and his customer skills are fantastic."

Alistair works three days a week, and is currently saving up for driving lessons.

But his customer service skills are not surprising in June last year he was named Advertiser paperboy of the year for his deliveries in the Cricklade Road area of Highworth, and praised for being as regular as clockwork.

Connect, which helped Alistair get the Matalan job, has been running for 13 years. So far it has helped more than 300 people, with disadvantages and disabilities to find work.

Alistair was on the books for about 18 months. Senior employment officer Ann King said: "Alistair's got great enthusiasm and it was a question of finding the right job.

"He'd tried valeting and washing cars but it wasn't right and work in a post room didn't work because he would have had to push a heavy trolley. But he's got a lovely personality and we're really pleased he's found a job he likes."

l Any businesses which can offer training or work opportunities can phone Ann King at Connect on 01793 421978.