Chopsticks resource centre in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, can bank on increased production at their new site in 2008 thanks to a £7,000 cash boost.

Funding from the ScottishPower Green Energy Trust has allowed the charity - which offers supportive work placements to adults with learning disabilities - to add a biomass boiler to their new workshop.

The new premises will provide greater space to store the goods and will mean Chopsticks can double their workforce, involving more adults with learning disabilities in the area.

Alison McKean, Head of Environment Energy Retail at ScottishPower, said: "The ScottishPower Green Energy Trust was delighted to be able to contribute towards the cost of the biomass boiler, which will have great environmental benefits for the charity's new premises. Chopsticks is a fantastic resource for people with learning difficulties, and we have always been keen to support community ventures like this."

Christopher Marlowe, Development Officer for Chopsticks, was delighted with the funding from the Green Energy Trust. He said: "We are immensely grateful to ScottishPower Green Energy Trust for making it possible for Chopsticks to take a significant step forward and expand our charity, while at the same time making a contribution to reducing carbon emissions. The introduction of the boiler and associated woodchip production will enable us to expand our product range and increase the scope of the service Chopsticks provides. It marks a major step in the charity's development.