Rural Affairs Minister, Edwin Poots MLA, has welcomed the launch of a new social farm in Bangor funded by his department's Rural Social Economy Investment Scheme.

Behind the Stable Door Ltd is a social farm that provides those with a disability or illness the opportunity to participate and work on a farm. The new project was part financed through a £50,000 grant from Department of Agriculture, the Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) pilot Rural Social Economy Investment Scheme.

Minister Poots said: "As a result of DAERA's funding, Behind the Stable Door has been able to branch into a new area of work which will help it develop and become more sustainable.

"The provision of new equipment has enabled them to shred and bag waste egg cartons to use and sell as bedding for horses, thereby providing a second income that will allow for more growth and stability in their social enterprise. Since its completion, the owner has experienced steady sales and has received very positive feedback with a high number of returning customers.

"This new growth has provided them with a renewed sense of satisfaction and achievement as they are able to see the product that they have helped create being sold to support the farm."

The £450,000 scheme assisted established and emerging social enterprises to increase their capacity, potential profitability and sustainability, whilst supporting those who live in rural areas.