An energy firm will be opening a store after staff used the lockdown delay to help the community.

Utilita will be opening its eighth shop and advice centre in the country in Blackburn today, four months after they original opening date.

Instead of being furloughed or having time off, the hub staff have been working with various charitable causes to help the community in any way they can.

One charity to benefit was homeless shelter Nightsafe Kate Hollern, MP for Blackburn, who will be present for the virtual opening, said: “I’m delighted to see a Utilita Energy Hub open in Blackburn town centre.

"In recent years, we’ve seen large companies leave local high streets across Britain, so it’s fantastic to see an energy supplier move in, recognising the value of face-to-face service.

“The fact that anyone can receive free energy-saving advice from Utilita energy efficiency experts – you don’t have to be a customer – is great news for the people of Blackburn.

“I really like that there’s a community room for local people to use and I’m pleased that they’re already working with local charities and community groups to help make a difference in the area.

“I wish the team at the Utilita Energy Hub every success, they are a welcome addition to the community here.”