Vanessa Jones, 60, who now lives in Blacon, scooped the 'Inspirational Story' award at the UK Online Centre's outstanding achievement awards in London.

The awards recognise people who have overcome difficulties to use computers and the internet to make real changes to their lives.

Vanessa was presented with the award at London's Globe Theatre by GMTV's Andrea McLean and the new minister for digital inclusion, Paul Murphy.

The crowd at the awards ceremony heard how she overcame adversity with the help of IT resources at the Harold Tomlins Homeless Centre on Grovesnor Street, Chester.

Vanessa said: "I'm so proud of what I've achieved and I'm over the moon to win the award. With no exaggeration I really do owe the centre everything I have today."

Just two years ago, Vanessa was homeless and penniless without anyone to turn to, after a business venture went horribly wrong.

Luckily, she found her way into the day centre which acts as part of Chester Aid for the Homeless, who gave her the chance to rebuild her life.

Vanessa said: "I never thought it would happen to me, but being thrown on the scrapheap makes you realise quite how easy it is to get there.

"At the worst point I was living in an old car with someone else and three dogs.

"I came across Harold Tomlins Centre by chance, they invited me in, gave me a hot meal, use of a shower and offered me counselling and a bed.

"I was able to use the computers five days a week, which was wonderful. It was a means by which I could start to reconstruct my life.

"I've now got a job, and a place to live. For the first time in ages, things are looking positive."

Minister for digital inclusion, Paul Murphy, said Vanessa's story can inspire people to use IT to change their lives for the better.

Mr Murphy said: "Vanessa is a perfect example, and it's a combination of her new skills and sheer determination that have helped her forge a path to success."

GMTV presenter Andrea McLean added: "We don't say 'well done' enough to people who overcome personal barriers to accomplish extraordinary things in their lives."