A BUSINESS green group is £5,000 better off - thanks to support from local bankers.

The Business Environment Association, which now has more than 240 members, was presented with a cheque as part of a three-year support package from NatWest Corporate Banking Services in East Lancashire.

"We are keen to support the BEA because we recognise that sound environmental practice is a key element of good business," said Harry Collinge, NatWest's corporate director for the area.

"Through the BEA we are helping companies enjoy bottom line benefits - such as waste minimisation and energy efficiency programmes."

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