SWAPPING their computers for paintbrushes, a team from npower in Worcester helped charity Onside transform a canteen space into a new bakery called MIX.

The venture is a social enterprise initiative created by Onside to deliver a unique bakery in St Paul's Street, serving quality, fresh healthy lunches, breads and cakes. All profits will contribute to the charity's work delivering vital mentoring and advocacy support to local people in crisis and facing disadvantage.

“When we heard about this fantastic project lots of us from npower wanted to volunteer and get involved," said Lian Hitchen, service centre manager and part of npower`s green deal and obligations team. Onside is a great local charity supporting local vulnerable people and this is a practical way we can help. The sun has shone and we have all enjoyed painting as well as great food.”

Local people with learning difficulties will be working at MIX, where individuals can gain confidence, learn new skills and gain personal pride through working at the cafe.

Cathy Jackson-Read from Onside. added: "A warm welcome awaits at MIX. Not only will people enjoy delicious fresh food and drink they will also be enabling Onside to improve the lives of local disadvantages people through this unique social enterprise initiative." ” Said Cathy Jackson-Read from Onside.

MIX opens on Tuesday, May 26. Initial service will be for takeaways, buffet service for local businesses with a full sit down café opening end of June.