Less than a year ago Kevin Barrett lost his job and then his home.

But after being out of work for less than two months he said “to hell with the recession” which was gripping the country and decided to start his own window cleaning business. And since then he has not looked back.

Working from the back of his car with just a sponge and a set of ladders he needed to cash to put food on the table.

Now eight months later he has got his own van, website and one of the most modern and best window washing systems money can buy.

“It was pretty gut wrenching losing my job,” said Kevin.

“I had been working for a car hire company and before that I had been valeting. I had never been out of work before.

“But then after losing my job and I couldn’t get another, it was another kicking when we lost our house because we couldn’t pay the rent.”

Kevin said he was lucky because his girlfriend’s parents gave them a roof and they have been with them ever since giving the support which was necessary.

“Claire and I have been together for 10 years and we’ve got a little boy Jake, who is eight, so we really owe my in-laws. We couldn’t have done it without them.”

The window cleaning business started slowly.

“I leafletted Wootton Bassett and I was quite surprised with the response,” he said.

“Then after that I went to West Swindon and got another good response.

“The money I got allowed me to get a small van and then a bigger one and then specialist equipment.

“It’s all been paid for, which is satisfying.

“Next year I want to expand and, possibly, take someone on and, of course, we have to get our own home.”

“It just goes to prove than if I can do it so can anybody. You’ve just got to keep at it.”

Kev’s Quality Window Cleaning can be contacted on 07935480112 and his website is www.kevsqualitywindowcleaning.com