A FORMER drug addict turned award-winning success story addressed a Prince's Trust party last week.

Ian Fisher from Moreton was chosen by the youth charity to talk about his experiences at the fundraising event, The Diamond Ball.

The sparkling event maintains its reputation as the jewel in the Prince's Trust crown for raising record-smashing funds and important awareness of their work in the North West.

After winning Young Achiever of the Year, proud Ian spoke to high profile guests TV pundit Alan Hansen.

In bleaker times, Ian suffered long term drug and alcohol abuse which led to rock-bottom stints in prison and hospital.

He told his audience that without the support of The Prince's Trust, he would have given up on life but thankfully received enough guidance and financial support to overcome all barriers and set up organisation Sub Aware', which educates schools, youth groups and the wider community on the effects of drugs and alcohol.

Ian said: "It's empowering to remind young people that there are always opportunities to turn life around - it's about grasping chances with both hands and making a steadfast commitment to doing yourself justice."

The Diamond Ball saw the raffle alone raise some serious cash by offering darlings demanding diamonds this Christmas a chance to win a £10,000 sparkler.

The presentation of the diamond ring, donated by exclusive North West jeweller, David M Robinson, was the highlight of a spectacular party with a purpose- to beat last year's staggering fundraising total of £43,000 - a number exceeded by over £24,000.

The youth charity offers practical support including training, mentoring and financial assistance to help young people who struggle at school, are in or leaving care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law.

For more information about The Prince's Trust visit www.princes-trust.org.uk or call 0800 842 842.