ONE of Kidderminster's leading stores has backed Operation Covert with a donation of more than £150.

Marks & Spencer staff at Weavers Wharf chose to back our appeal through their charity fund, which supports a wide range of local causes.

Manager, Bev Newey, said: "All our stores have a modest charity budget because we feel it is important to be involved with our communities and to support initiatives that improve people's lives.

"One of our main criteria is employability - we like to support schemes that will help people in their workplace or give them extra skills to improve their employability."

She added: "Staff here felt that Operation Covert and the activities that go on at Rhydd Covert were very worthwhile.

"The Scout movement has a lasting impact on young people and helps them live their lives to the full. Its objectives enable youngsters to become more rounded people and this, in turn, helps them with employment later in life."

The Kidderminster store has been a keen supporter of the Wyre Forest community and has also backed the Kidderminster Christmas Lights Appeal run by the Shuttle/Times & News, Kemp Hospice and many individuals and disabled groups in recent years.