AN engineer who took a "real interest" in rehabilitation after recovering from an injury decided to change course to follow his passion.

Deciding to follow a career in sports rehabilitation after years spent working as an engineer, Craig Johnson admitted he had to "start from scratch" as he had no GCSEs to fall back on.

Despite this initial hurdle, Craig was resolute in his goal and spent years gaining the necessary work experience and qualifications until he was ready to launch his own business, 'Evexia', in 2016.

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Some of the equipment at EvexiaSome of the equipment at Evexia (Image: Evexia) Although Craig started with no relevant qualifications, the 38-year-old has gone on to achieve a degree in Sports Rehabilitation and a Masters degree in Strength and Conditioning.

With a commitment to helping people overcome mental and physical injuries, and build up their confidence, this extra research was undertaken to ensure that Evexia can provide the most complete and detailed service possible.

This commitment has led Craig to perform thousands of treatments over the years, and after moving to Leigh Spinners Mill two years ago, he has worked with professional athletes and bodybuilders, and clients from age eight to eighty.

Craig has worked with customers from all ages and backgroundsCraig has worked with customers from all ages and backgrounds (Image: Evexia) Speaking about the business, Craig, from Hindley, said: "I already had a lifelong passion for sport and the idea for 'Evexia' came after I had an injury and I took a real interest in rehabilitation.

"I had to start from scratch but I knew what I wanted to do, which was to provide a detailed service around sports rehabilitation, sports science, and strength and conditioning.

"There can be long waiting lists for physios at times so I wanted to make sure I offered a welcoming space where I tailor the service to each individual and help them overcome their physical and mental injuries.

"That is what I find really rewarding, when you help someone overcome that injury and see them start feeling more confident again."

While Craig is committed to helping people of all ages through Evexia, he aims to grow the business by providing a more detailed data-driven service for sports professionals, as well as offering further support to keep the older generations fit and healthy.