A new scheme which aims to save hundreds of litres of paint and create new employment is set to open its doors in mid-Norfolk later this month.

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham Community Repaint is a not-for-profit scheme and will be the first in Norfolk to be accredited by the national Community Repaint programme. Picture: MAISIE MCDERMOTTDereham Community Repaint is a not-for-profit scheme and will be the first in Norfolk to be accredited by the national Community Repaint programme. Picture: MAISIE MCDERMOTT (Image: Archant)

Dereham Community Repaint is a not-for-profit scheme and will be the first in the county to be accredited by the national Community Repaint programme.

The scheme aims to rescue some 300,000 litres of paint from waste each year and to redistribute to those who can benefit.

The Dereham branch is expected to create at least one full time job, but will also rely on volunteers to help with collections and distribution of paint around Norfolk.

Breckland District and Dereham Town councillor, Harry Clarke, praised the plans.

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham Community Repaint is a not-for-profit scheme and will be the first in Norfolk to be accredited by the national Community Repaint programme. Pictured is Chris Olley. Picture: MAISIE MCDERMOTTDereham Community Repaint is a not-for-profit scheme and will be the first in Norfolk to be accredited by the national Community Repaint programme. Pictured is Chris Olley. Picture: MAISIE MCDERMOTT (Image: Archant)

'This project has huge benefits for the local community,' he said.

'I am delighted that good causes may be able to receive paint that is saved from going to waste, and that there are also plans to provide training in painting and decorating.'

The scheme works by the paint being collected and sorted at the local depot. It can then be offered for sale at low cost or donated to community projects or people without the means to redecorate for themselves.

Not-for-profit community and voluntary groups will be able to apply for paint at very low cost or free of charge by an application process to explain what the paint will be used for.

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham Community Repaint is a not-for-profit scheme and will be the first in Norfolk to be accredited by the national Community Repaint programme. Picture: MAISIE MCDERMOTTDereham Community Repaint is a not-for-profit scheme and will be the first in Norfolk to be accredited by the national Community Repaint programme. Picture: MAISIE MCDERMOTT (Image: Archant)

Members of the public will also be able to buy paint, which currently include stocks of unopened emulsion and gloss paints in a vast range of colours at £2 per litre.

Chris Olley, who has formed a community interest company specifically in order to set up the repaint scheme, is also donating the use of premises at Rashes Green, off Yaxham Road, until the scheme is able to pay its own costs.

Individuals and families on low income can also be referred by social services, the Department for Work and Pensions, their GP, or local church.

You can ring Dereham Community Repaint on 01362 690129 for more information, opening hours, volunteering, or to help out. Or alternatively visit the national website www.communityrepaint.org.uk.