Social enterprise and charity Green Routes in Stirling has received a cheque for £18,512 from funds raised by the 5p single-use carrier bag charge.

Dan Wood, branch manager at Waitrose Stirling said: “I am delighted to be able to award this money to a much respected local charity with a strong track record of community involvement and wonderful support to young people with learning needs.

"What impresses me is that the support is built around an emphasis on training, development and progression in life. This resonates well with the principles of Waitrose of lifelong learning. I know this money has come as a pleasant surprise and I wish them well in its use.”

Dr Peter Williams, chairman at Green Routes, said: “We really appreciate the consideration and generosity of Waitrose, in donating a cheque for the magnificent sum of £18,500 for our project. The money will be put to good use in developing and growing Green Routes and, dare I say, helping us to bloom and flourish.

"Thank you once again Waitrose and your staff."

Waitrose signed up to Zero Waste Scotland’s carrier bag commitment, ensuring that funds raised from the charge that was introduced by the Scottish Government in October 2014, go to charities across Scotland.

Reducing waste is part of Waitrose’s “Treading Lightly” value, which also includes: bagless delivery options for orders placed online; a range of reusable bags available in store for purchase and the pickup of carrier bags for recycling by delivery drivers.

Picture from left to right: James Kennedy (partner), Dan Wood (branch manager), John McAlpine, Amanda Martin, Craig Jackson, Sarah Kirkwood, Georgia Dullagan and Peter Williams.