A HOMELESS man has gone back to a pitch selling the Big Issue weeks after starting a new job at a top Ilkley hotel.

David Denton, general manager of the Craiglands Hotel, was so impressed with Mark Moakes'

attitude, as he bought a copy of the magazine, he offered him a job on the spot.

But weeks after starting as a kitchen porter - a post which included accommodation - Mr Moakes decided to move on.

The 32-year-old is now staying with friends while waiting for a place at a hostel and is selling the Big Issue from various pitches in Leeds city centre.

Bryn Hoyle, vendor support team leader for the Big Issue In The North Trust, in Leeds, said: "Although he really appreciated the opportunity he was given at the hotel and was enjoying the work he decided it just wasn't really for him and that's why it didn't work out. I think he was missing his customers as well and is now looking forward to getting himself a regular pitch and set of customers again.

"It's possible he might return to Ilkley - he had a great time there and really appreciated all the support he got from his customers.

"But he still wants to ultimately get a full-time job and his own place to live - he's on our two year training programme aimed at building up the skills to enable him to live a 'normal' life and is even thinking of maybe going to college."

A spokesman for the hotel said: "He was here about two-and-a-half weeks - there were no problems at all and I think he just decided the job wasn't for him."

Mr Moakes was a familiar sight to shoppers on Brook Street, selling the Big Issue.

Just months earlier he had been living on the streets after a row with his partner left him homeless.

He said taking up a pitch selling the Big Issue, in Ilkley, was helping him to rebuild his life. He paid tribute to the generosity of townsfolk, which he said was making his fresh start possible.

He said: "The people are absolutely brilliant in this town. Some people buy the magazine and I know I have already sold them one but they'll buy another one just a couple of days later to help me out.

"The generosity and kindness they have shown me has helped me tremendously. It makes me feel good that there are people out there who are willing to help."

Mr Moakes was unavailable for comment this week, when contacted by the Ilkley Gazette.