A former heroin addict is coming to Peterhead to share his story of escaping from Manchester’s drug scene.
Barry Underwood is coming to the Apex Church later this month to explain how he turned his back on his addiction.
The 54-year-old will also be visiting Mintlaw, Fraserburgh and inmates at HMP Grampian.
He left school at the age of 16 without any qualifications and eventually found himself selling and taking drugs.
Mr Underwood was dependent on heroin for 14 years and spent time behind bars.
But he managed to turn his life around and eventually became an ordained as a minister.
He wrote about his experiences in north-west England in a book called Once an Addict.
Mr Underwood said: “I will be telling my life story taking people through the ups and downs and how I turned it around.
“The message that I carry when I am telling my story is that people can change.
“If people have a desire to change, it is possible that they can stay changed.”
Apex Church pastor Neil Cameron said his story would “encourage” others in Buchan who are battling their own addictions.
He said: “We’re really pleased to have Barry come visit us.
This is a man who has been in the very depths of despair – addicted to drugs for 14 years – but who now lives an exciting, action-packed life, free from drugs.
“His story will encourage anybody, particularly those who are struggling with addiction.”
Mr Underwood will share his experiences during a talk at Apex Church, Peterhead on Sunday, April 29 at 6pm.
For more information please contact Apex Church on 01779 478238 or email info@apexcentre.org.uk