A GREEN grant has allowed a Helmshore firm to slash its energy costs and improve the comfort of its workforce.

Protofab Ltd, of York Avenue, has cut energy costs by a third thanks to the grant made available by Action For Haslingden.

The company, which makes specialist precision steel products for a variety of national and international clients including Marks and Spencer and GEC, received £2,475 through the Business Environment Association as part of a £4,950 insulation scheme.

Managing director Paul Brougham said the firm had been able to fully insulate the buildings and expect to reduce the energy bill by about 30 per cent which would help Protofab to remain profitable and competitive. Ultimately, this may allow the company to expand.

"During the summer months it has helped make better working conditions by keeping the building much cooler,'' he added.

Protofab has operated for 12 years and has a £350,000 turnover and workforce of seven.

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