WHEN chef Michael Legge began going blind a few years ago, he started looking for a career change.

Now, with help from New Deal, the 41-year-old has his own complementary health clinic - Head To Toe - in his home town of Blaenavon.

And Mr Legge's success was rewarded at the Wales New Deal Achievement Awards 2003. He was the overall winner in the awards to mark the 50,000th person from Wales to be helped back into work by New Deal.

Mr Legge, who set up the clinic offering massage, aromatherapy and reflexology, just a few months ago, said: "Business is getting better and better. People have come to me from Usk, Cwmbran, Abergavenny and Cardiff, as well as Blaenavon."

Mr Legge now hopes to use his skills outside the clinic by offering his services to stressed-out office workers.

He added: "When I realised I was going to go blind I felt devastated and had to think what I could do.

"I've always had an interest there and I wanted to help people. The New Deal has given me a great opportunity to set up a business and help the community."

Mr Legge was helped to draw up a business plan by Newport and Gwent Enterprise, while a grant from Broker Cymru, which delivers New Deal for Disabled People, helped him buy essential equipment such as aromatherapy oils, towels and a heater. He was also helped to buy an electric couch by Torfaen Action Team for Jobs.

* In the picture: Michael Legge with Broker Cymru adviser Sarah Charles.