Millions of shoppers have voted in Tesco stores up and down the country and it can now be revealed Derbyshire Wildlife Trust has been awarded £4000. Work will now begin on bringing the project to life.

Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve lies on the edge of Ironville and runs along a section of the old Cromford Canal.  Tranquil water meadows extend all the way to Langley Mill. Visitors enjoy an extensive network of paths throughout the beautiful setting and may spot water vole, grass snake and dragonflies as well as lapwing and redshank.

Kate Lemon, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s Regional Manager for Erewash Valley said; “We are absolutely delighted to receive this invaluable funding from Tesco and we thank everyone who voted for our project. The money will be used to train local volunteers and make improvements to footpaths and a bridge so more people can enjoy beautiful wildlife in the gorgeous location of Erewash Meadows.”

Voting ran in stores throughout May and June with customers choosing which local project they would like to get the top award using a token given to them at the checkout.

Tesco customers get the chance to vote for three different groups each time they shop. Every other month, when votes are collected, three groups in each of Tesco’s regions are awarded funding.

Alec Brown, Tesco’s Head of Community, said: “Bags of Help contributes funds to community projects up and down the country and we’ve been overwhelmed by the response from customers voting in their local stores. We’re looking forward to seeing more projects brought to life.”

Groundwork’s National Chief Executive, Graham Duxbury, said: “Bags of Help continues to enable local communities up and down Britain to improve the local spaces and places that matter to them. The diversity of projects that are being funded shows that local communities have a passion to create something great in their area. We are pleased to be able to be a part of the journey and provide support and encouragement to help local communities thrive.”

In addition, to mark Tesco’s 100th year, they have announced two special voting rounds, Tesco Bags of Help Centenary Grants, taking place in store now with larger grant amounts available over wider geographic regions. Please look online for more information on if they can support your group either through the normal Bags of Help vote or Tesco Bags of Help Centenary Grants and don’t forget to vote in store!