Marks & Sparks clean-up

THE national retailer Marks & Spencer is to lend over 1,000 of its employees as part of a waterways clean-up.

In addition, we are told the company is to make a financial contribution of up to £50,000 towards the Trust's work to 'restore, conserve, enhance and educate people' about the waterways.

50 canal locations

This is part of the company's Beach Clean Up, that this year is expected to include 50 canal locations that will take place between 22nd and 28th April.

Simon Salem, Marketing Director at Canal & River Trust, comments:

"The canal network is a national treasure and a haven for many endangered and much loved species. By supporting the new Trust and our waterways, the M&S Big Beach Clean-up recognises the value of the waterways for fish and other wildlife. By donating their time, M&S employees will help make a real difference to the canal that's on their doorstep."

The money comes from the 5p carrier bag sale at the stores, that since its introduction in 2008, has not only reduced carrier bag use by 80 per cent, but raised over £4 millions for charity.