Stroud resident Jordan Masson, 23, from Bisley Road, is embarking on a new career as he pursues his passion for puppetry thanks to the Barnwood Trust.

Thanks to invaluable support from the Cheltenham-based disability organisation, Jordan has received a grant that is enabling him to create a business.

Puppets have been part of Jordan's life since he was small, but it's only now that he is receiving the encouragement he needs to set out his stage and host shows across the area.

Jordan has his next gig at Moreton Hill Care Centre in Stonehouse on September 7.

"I am really excited to be sharing my love of puppets with others," said Jordan who has been inspired by British ventriloquist Paul Zedin who won America's Got Talent in 2015.

Jordan has also been encouraged by veteran puppeteer John Hill at Cheltenham's Butterfly Garden, an educational and therapeutic centre for people of all ages dealing with disablement of any kind.

"Thank you to all those who have helped and given me confidence to do this," said Jordan.

As to Jordan's favourite character in his repertoire?

"That's a hard question to answer. Probably the Little Blue Monster with whom I came fourth in the Golden Sands talent show in Dawlish back in 2012."

"As I tell my audience and to quote Barney the Dinosaur, your imagination really can take you anywhere."