A man who claims to have only 13p to his name is hoping his unusual approach to finding work is going to pay off.
Percy Walton, 54, has spent the last week standing in Stall Street with a sign promoting himself as an enthusiastic and skilled worker who is looking for a job.
The self-employed nomad has been out of work for more than two years after injuring his back, and since recovering he has struggled to find employment.
He said: "When my back got better I signed on with the JSA (job seeker's allowance) but I got some work and they stopped all payments – I haven't received any money since May. I've given up signing on.
"I woke up one morning and had this idea to go straight to the public – I don't want to rely on the state."
Mr Walton was living on a boat along the canal in the city but has had to give the boat up because he can no longer afford it.
He is now living in a tent on the canal bank.
He has spent five days during the past week holding his sign promoting himself as a "Skilled, fit and enthusiastic good worker."
Mr Walton, who is joined by four-year-old Colley Cross Dilyn, has a degree in building engineering and management from the University of the West of England, a Skills Centre certificate in carpentry and a Seafaring certificate.
He said: "I've had nine offers of jobs but they are all for work in the future. I've been offered gardening, building or painting.
"You just have to remain positive. There are guys more skilled than me and they can't get work. There are lots of skilled people out there looking for work.
"When the carpet goes from underneath it's shocking but I know there's people out there worse off."
Anyone wanting to employ Mr Walton should call 07591 947304.
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