Former drug addicts’ work goes on show at art gallery

One of those to have his work exhibited is Andy Bailey, from Hatfield, who describes his life on drugs as his “twilight years”.

The 41-year-old turned his life around after help from drug treatment services and is now studying for a degree in creative arts at Sheffield Hallam University.

Mr Bailey spent 20 years with a drug habit and is now exhibiting some of his sculpture work at Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery.

He said: “I spent 20 years as a chef, working in top restaurants across the length and breadth of the country, managing to hold down jobs at the same time as taking drugs.

“Those really were my twilight years. I lost contact with my family for a long period of time and spent time living on the street.

“But thanks to the treatment support I received, I was able to make a new start. Now I’m studying and have put the twilight years well and truly behind me.”

The exhibition, which has been organised by NHS Doncaster’s Drug Strategy Unit and Doncaster Council, is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm and admission is free.

Andy Collins from NHS Doncaster said: “The work on display ranges from modern art canvases through to delicate cake decorations.

“Often people with drug and alcohol problems have emotions and feelings that are suppressed by taking substances.

“Once they embark on a road to recovery these emotions and feelings flood back and allow creative talents to emerge.”