A SWEET shop run by disabled people has been opened in a charity's skills centre.

The group at Scope, in Middlesbrough, have longed to open a room at the centre as a drinks and confectionary shop and have been able to turn their dreams into reality thanks to a donation from the Abbey National Charitable Trust.

Vince Farell, co-operative development worker, said: "The business had previously operated from a mobile trolley and members were very keen to find a permanent home for this venture.

"They are very excited at this latest development, particularly as they have been able to extend their product range and now feel more like shopkeepers.

"Co-operative working is an ideal way to teach the members a variety of skills and these business activities create interesting and real life learning opportunities.