AN epileptic man left unemployed for more than a decade because of his illness has finally landed a job.

Tony Hammett spiralled into depression and became a virtual recluse after numerous episodes where people would mistake his seizures for a drunken binge.

But the 42-year-old says he is now as happy as he’s ever been after securing work as a barman at the Postal Order in Foregate Street, Worcester.

“I had never considered working in a pub, but I was certainly prepared to give it a try,” said Mr Hammett, who had been a machine engineer before his epilepsy and depression forced him to resign.

He says he has specialist employment group Remploy to thank for its help, having been referred to its Worcester branch in the Butts.

“Remploy was fantastic for me,” he said.

“They helped me set achievable goals and showed me it was possible to get back to work even after such a long time without a job.”

The support paid off when Mr Hammett, of Astwood Road, Worcester, was offered the two-week trial at the Postal Order.

“It’s fair to say that Tony was very nervous during his work trial,” said Rob Deeming, Postal Order manager.

“In fact, he would shake so much when he was pouring a pint that most of it ended up on the floor.

“However, I could see that he had potential.

“He was good with customers and he worked hard. I really believed he had the ability to do the job and wanted to give him every chance to prove me right.”

As a result, the trial was extended to 12 weeks before he was told he had been offered the job. “I love working here,” said Mr Hammett, who has already picked up an Employee of the Month award. Remploy provides specialist employment services for disabled and disadvantaged people.