Marks & Spencer (M&S) is encouraging its customers to sign-up to become big beach cleaners and help the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) clean Britain's beaches and protect our seas.
The first ever M&S Big Beach Clean-up, organised by the MCS, will take place between Friday 11th May and Sunday 13th May and the aim will be to stop common items such as fishing nets, ropes and bottles tops polluting our beaches and seas.
Younger customers can get involved with free beach activity packs, rock pooling rambling and be on the lookout for unexpected items. Previous MCS beach cleans have found unusual items such as bicycles, rubber ducks and superhero outfits.
It's hoped that thousands of people will roll-up their sleeves and clean 50 beaches across the UK. Customers that register in advance at www.mcsuk.org/foreverfishwill receive a money-off at M&S voucher* and will get some free M&S snacks on the day of the clean.
At six specially selected beaches there's an extra incentive to get involved. There will be a free barbecue and kids' games organised by the National Schools Partnership. Locations include Clacton-On-Sea, Hazelbank near Belfast and Cramond near Edinburgh.
Richard Gillies, Director of Plan A, M&S' eco and ethical programme, said: “Our customers care passionately about where their food comes from, especially fish. We only source from the most sustainable sources, but this is something more, this is our chance to get out onto beaches with our customers and take direct action to help protect marine life and our coastline.”
Samantha Fanshaw, MCS Chief Executive, said: "MCS surveys have shown that litter levels are unacceptably high. We are delighted that M&S staff and customers recognise the importance of clean seas and beaches and will be joining forces with us in this major event to help turn the tide on litter."
The M&S Big Beach Clean-up is part of M&S' Forever Fish campaign which is funded by the 5p carrier bag charge in M&S foodhalls. Since its introduction in 2008, the charge has reduced carrier bag use by 80 per cent and raised over £4 million for charity.
Customers can find out more www.marksandspencer.com/plana and follow the event on twitter (@marksandspencer or search #beachclean) and facebook (www.facebook.com/marksandspencer).
