Marks Spencer has joined forces with Scottish Borders Council to announce an environmental initiative which will boost the eco-status of all schools in the region.

MS, which opened its first green store in Galashiels last year, has invested Pounds 35,000 in the Scottish Borders Schools Eco Challenge. The funding has been used to employ Fiona Hanlin, a dedicated environmental officer and primary teacher who will support schools.

The Borders initiative is designed to encourage schoolchildren to identify and present a project based around an environmental theme, such as water, biodiversity, energy, healthy living, litter, school grounds, transport or waste, with a focus on sustainable development.

Participation in the challenge will also help schools to achieve their goals within the Eco Schools international award programme. The most impressive entries will win cash prizes.