However, he embarked on a career change after experiencing two mental breakdowns. A conversation with his wife spurred him to explore the world of Venetian plastering.

Gavin trained up as a ‘master decor’ in Italy, the birthplace of Venetian plastering, and has since taught in Europe.

In just two years of owning Meehan Interior, he has taken his masterclasses to Belgium and received invitations to teach in Miami and Mexico City.

He also became an ambassador to the training centre, Italiano Stucco. His global career and ability to teach have been unexpected, Gavin revealed.

“I hated school,” said Gavin. “I always used to skive school. I’ve got no GCSEs. All I’ve ever known is how to work. I’ve worked for builders, shop fitters. When I was at school, I used to do three days a week. The two days I’d go work.

“But you don’t need an education if you’re willing to work and learn in the building trade or any industry. Show willing.”

The dad from Allerton trained himself up through courses and perfecting the art of plastering with free work. His first big project saw him transform the walls of Aldo's Italian in Greengates.

“I never expected it to go like it has done. I never expected to be a teacher either. Every job I used to take on it used to be around Bradford or Yorkshire. I’d never travel anywhere else,” he adds.

In a message to others, he said: “Don’t hold back, life’s too short. You don’t have to be a plasterer, you don’t have to know anything about plastering at all. The people who plaster 9 times out of 10 are the ones that struggle the most.

“I’ve started at the bottom, but I’ve had to, then I’ve learnt more from that. I’m glad I’ve done what I’ve done.”