REDUNDANCY has encouraged a joiner to pursue dreams of running his own business.

Mike Roche, 50, has taken the bold step of branching out on his own after working as a joiner and surveyor throughout his adult life.

Father-of-two Mike suffered redundancy twice and, sick of the insecurity of working for large companies, has set up Mike’s Joinery and Window Repairs, based at his Melrose Avenue home.

With a little advice from Heywood Business Support Project and his contacts in the industry, the company already has a number of projects in the pipeline and Mike has allied with another local businessman to increase the type of work the two firms can take on.

"By the time I was made redundant for a second time, I was very keen to set something up on my own,"said Mike.

"I am in the fortunate position that my daughters are grown up and I don’t have too many financial constraints, so I was able to use a lot of my redundancy package on a van, materials and keeping everything legal.

"I’m looking forward to being my own boss and with the knowledge and experience I already have, I’m hoping to make it a success."

Mike is using his specialist knowledge to partner with Philip Clare, of Classic Conservatories and Porches, who runs a business from the same neighbourhood.

"With our different areas of knowledge, we can together on projects that we wouldn’t necessarily be able to alone," he said.

Mike’s business specialises in replacing or repairing wooden and plastic doors and windows, though he will consider all joinery-based projects.

He is getting some assistance from his wife, Tina, who is also facing redundancy in May when Boots Warehouse on Taylor Street closes.

"Tina is well-trained in book-keeping so she’s going to help me with that side of things," he said.

"I’m really grateful to my family and contacts for all their help, and the business advisers at TOPS Business Centre also gave me some good help."

Anyone interested in hiring Mike should phone 07545304881.

For information on Heywood Business Support Project call 01706 362152.

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