A man who despaired of getting a job after writing over 200 applications in three months and not finding work, has turned his passion into a profession.

Movie maniac Malcolm Thorn has launched a business selling old-time films on video from his home in Wheatlands Lane, Cross Hills.

Malcolm, who was made redundant five times between 1992 and October 1998, has set up Bygone Videos, supplying movies like the 1920s classic Son of Sheik staring Rudolph Valentino.

"I wrote for every type of job - mostly unskilled - but never got anything. Then a friend suggested I turn my hobby into a profession," said Malcolm.

The ex-soldier, who has been an fan of old films since he was a boy, has a huge collection of titles on file - such as the 1952 Prisoner of Zenda and movies starring John Wayne and Elvis Presley.

"Only today somebody telephoned and asked for a film I've never heard of. I don't know who starred in it or when it was made but I'll give it my best shot to find it," said Malcolm, who is married with three children.

He hopes to get support from the Royal British Legion to fund his monthly mailout catalogue.

Call (01535) 637375 for details.

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