A WIDNES mum has created a novel way to cut waste, reduce landfill and save people time and money.

Mum-of-five Helen Lord recycles used kitchens.

She came up with the idea after refurbishing her own home in Coroners Lane on a budget.

Helen, aged 48, a former recruitment consultant, said: “It started off with me buying my own second hand kitchen.

“We didn’t have the money to buy a new one.

“I found a £100,000 Clive Christian kitchen for £5,000 on Ebay. It’s similar to one that Rod Stewart and Oprah Winfrey have.

“We fitted it ourselves. It is really easy."

Helen is a part-time carer for her mum and was looking for a change of career to fit in with her family.

Her Used Kitchen Exchange company now employs two people including her disabled neighbour, Tracey Evans.

She plans to take on three more staff this year, expand into Yorkshire and the Midlands and eventually go nationwide creating 30 more jobs.

Her recycling approach has won countless accolades, including Halton Chamber of Commerce’s keep it green environmental business award.

Helen said: “We are preventing landfill.

“Kitchens are made from evil stuff. MDF (medium density fibreboard) is sawdust stuck together with glue. It doesn’t biodegrade and is carcinogenic.

“We never throw old cars away. We always sell them or trade them in.

“All too often kitchens are skipped even though they are still in great condition.”

She has helped hundreds of people, many on low incomes, to save money.

She added: “I feel like Robin Hood robbing from the rich and giving to the not so wealthy.

“But everyone is happy.

“Sellers are delighted because people don’t like waste.

“People who get the kitchens are pleased to save money.

“We truly are a recycling business that benefits people.”