THE phrase one man's junk is another man's treasure has come true in Malvern thanks to an innovative scheme that matches equipment from firms that don't need it with companies that do.

Called the Higher Capacity Technology and Skills Brokerage, it was revealed to an audience of business people and councillors on Wednesday at the Malvern Hills Science Park, Malvern.

The scheme is part of the Prograta Fund, which uses cash from the European Regional Development Fund to help businesses in rural Herefordshire and Worcestershire with technology.

"Amazingly, we sent the delegates away with sheets to fill in asking what spare capacity and capabilities they have got and one sheet came back within three hours!" said Ian Page, technology co-ordinator for Prograta.

"There's been a very positive response."

The brokerage will work by charging users a membership fee to register, with Prograta then taking two per cent from the supplier and two per cent from the recipient.

"It is totally new for the technology sector but it is similar to the agricultural rings that farmers have been using for years to swap equipment," said Mr Page.

"As long as we can find a match, we will try and do whatever we can."

For more details, call Ian Page

on 01684 585200.