AN innovative 'hot house' aimed at highlighting ways you can save energy is to finally open after its launch was postponed by vandalism.

Yobs damaged the front door and some inside furnishings of the Addison Close house in Blackburn, just days before an official opening ceremony on June 5.

But now that repairs have been completed and security upgraded the house -believed to be only the second of its kind in the country - will now open on Thursday, July 10.

The hot house was created thanks to a £90,000 cash boost from the Energy Saving Trust's Home Energy Conservation Action Award.

The money has enabled Blackburn and Darwen Council to convert the premises into an energy saving home which contains features including solar panels, cavity walls, loft insulation and various other energy-saving fittings.

Councillor Mohammad Khan, chairman of the council's housing and community services committee, said: "This is the first hot house of its kind in the borough and will make a great contribution to education and advising people about energy conservation.

"The aim is to get people thinking about conservation and encourage them to plan and implement their own schemes."

Groups or individuals who would like to view the home should phone either 698167 or 698193 to arrange an appointment.

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