AN EX East End Gangster has inspired Newport pupils by speaking of how he turned his life around to become devoted to his faith.

John Pridmore visited Year 11 pupils at St Joseph’s RC High School last Thursday as part of their ‘Mission Week’. The Mission – ‘Made for Greatness’ was celebrated in events taking place all week and was held to emphasise the importance of each individual in the school, helping to develop the children spiritually and to enhance their faith journey.

Following the theme, ‘Seek Good not Evil’, Mr Pridmore spoke to pupils about how he had a conversion experience at the age of 28 that led him to work all over the world, alongside icons such as Mother Teresa.

The week also saw former pupil and actor Gareth Tempest speak to Year 8 pupils about his faith journey.