Richard Makepeace was successful in securing grant intervention through the first round of the RDPE bioeNErgy support programme along with four other rural businesses.

The aim of his application was to further expand and develop his business into biomass and firewood markets by purchasing a firewood processor and a tipping trailer.

Richard already supplies domestic customers with firewood across the local area, from Gilsland to Shotley Bridge, and is hoping to double his firewood production within three years. 

Richard carries out the majority of his contracting work on small undermanaged and often neglected woodlands.  Due to the nature of this work a high proportion of low grade timber is produced, this timber  often enters into biomass supply chains.  This biomass product can then meet demand from a number of sources from a local swimming pool to large power stations.  Purchasing a thinning harvester will make his contracting operation more efficient and productive.

"I'm delighted that my bid was successful.  Our new firewood processor makes the whole process so much quicker and easier - what would have taken three of us a full day using manual chopping techniques can now be done by one of us in just a few hours, so it will make a huge difference to the business.  The firewood market is strong and we're now in a better position to be able to meet demand."

 For more information on Richard's firewood supply or contracting services please email richardslogs@aol.com