A Belvedere student who worked as a porter to help support his widowed sick dad has turned his life around and become a football coach.

23-year-old Harry Yorke suffered setback after setback, starting with the loss of his mother and a period as a primary carer for his father who suffered a life-threatening illness.

He had to save money working menial jobs to save for the future and support his father, but he had a dream.

He said: “Just a year ago, I was travelling around South East Asia after saving up my wages from being a kitchen porter for so long.

“During my travels, I was wondering what I would do when I returned to London. I knew I couldn’t go back to menial work, I had to find something that would give me a career.”

The Belvedere student returned to London and underwent a 12-week traineeship with Charlton Athletic FC in partnership with London South East Colleges.

Harry, who was his school’s football team captain, was able to use his time at Charlton Athletic Community Trust to land a job at Newham College as their new women’s football team coach.

He said: “It’s a very busy time for me but I’m really enjoying the whole experience and feel like it’s taking me somewhere.

“I owe so much to Charlton Athletic and my fabulous tutor Kate who has helped me turn my life around.”

Emma Tissiman, traineeship course leader at London South East Colleges, said: “Harry is a great example of someone who has turned his life around with a traineeship and apprenticeship.

“His hard work, dedication and enthusiasm for football is paying off and he is set for an exciting career. We wish him the very best.”