An Enfield mum has fulfilled her dream of becoming a HGV driver despite doubters’ claims it was a “man’s job in a man’s world”.

Leanne Fogg, 40, had been working part-time in hospitality but with help from the local Job Centre she took a training course and is now working for a national delivery company.

The mother-of-four said she is determined to show other women that HGV driving is a career path for all, adding “we definitely need more women in the industry”.

She said: “If I can do it, you can do it.

“I was the only woman on the course but that made me more determined to prove I could drive a HGV.

“I was treated with dignity and respect by the Phoenix Training team, and more importantly, as an equal.”

She added that since taking the plunge two more women have signed up to the course and are doing well.

Ms Fogg continued: “This time last year if anyone had told me that I was going to become a fully qualified HGV driver, I would have said ‘in my dreams’.

“But now I can proudly say that I’m a lorry driver.

“It’s been such an exciting journey and I’m still not finished.

“I love driving and I still get the buzz every time I go out, and I’m so thankful to the jobcentre for the opportunity as it has changed my life in so many ways.”

Enfield Job Centre’s work coach Tanvir Khan said the Phoenix Training programme could provide the financial independence she longed for.

“Being the only female wasn’t the issue – everyone was very supportive,” he said.

“Now Leanne is a qualified HGV driver.

“She’s one of the first women to be employed through the programme. It’s a fantastic outcome.”

Ms Fogg said she loves her job and takes pride in driving to a high standard.

Being petite some of the loads she delivers can be challenging, but new lifting equipment has helped her work more safely and removes many of the job’s physical barriers.