A GREEN training centre with solar-powered lights, reed-bed sewage system and recycled-paper insulation opens in Burnley on Saturday.

The innovative centre, which has been refurbished at a cost of £100,000, will set new standards of environmental excellence.

Morecambe Lodge, Cemetery Lane, is run by Fresh Fields Enterprises, a charity which gives training in horticulture to adults with learning difficulties.

The centre, funded by Burnley's Challenge Fund for urban regeneration, English Partnerships and the EU is inviting members of the public to take a tour of the building on Saturday from 11.20am. The Mayor will perform the opening ceremony at noon.

Centre administrator Nick Taylor told the Citizen: "A solar panel powers the outside lights and the reed-bed sewage system is used as part of the nursery.

"It all ties in with the fact that we teach horticulture here, and it is part of the modern ethos on the environment."

Nick, who took over the running of the centre a month ago, added: "I'm really enjoying it here."

Fresh Fields has 12 students aged 18 and over who are given preparation for the world of work with the horticultural qualification, MPTC, and NVQs - taught in conjunction with Burnley College.

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