A DARWEN firm run by an Edgworth man is set to launch a glass-recycling machine for the licensed trade. Planet Advantage Ltd, based at Planet House, Albert Place, has carried out successful trials of the glass-crushing device and is set to launch it in the autumn. Managing Director Phil Scowcroft took a year off to research the recycling market before founding the company in 1996.

He has signed-up blue-chip clients such as Sharp Electronics and JJB Sports and now employs a team of 14.

The firm has received support from Business Link East Lancashire.

Adviser Tim Bullough helped with business planning and development.

The crusher, which is said to be quiet, safe and easy to use, can deal with up to 1,000 bottles an hour.

The ground glass can then be sold for use in the glass fibre industry -- for road-surfacing, drainage materials and shot-blasting.

Mr Scowcroft said: "Potential customers told me they wanted a complete solution which included knowledge, technical expertise, training and provision of equipment -- but it also had to save them money."

The Planet package includes project and equipment finance at a fixed monthly cost which can be offset by income from reclaimed materials or energy production, savings on transport and avoidance of landfill tax.

Planet Advantage is backed by the 3i plc group, which has invested £500,000.

Mr Scowcroft plans to triple the company's turnover to £5 million over the next three years.