STAFF at Marks and Spencers in Malvern will be pulling on their walking boots for a 125-mile fund-raising challenge.

M&S has launched its biggest ever fundraising campaign as part of its 125th anniversary celebrations.

Employees from the Malvern store are raising money for the Acorns Children’s Hospice, which cares for life-limited children and their families across the region.

Last weekend staff gave up their time to pack bags for customers in exchange for donations and there are a host of other activities planned for the coming months.

In June the shop is holding an in-store fashion show and then in July both a 125-mile walk and 125-mile bike ride are planned.

Store manager Rob Beefton said: “It’s really exciting to be celebrating our 125th anniversary and raising money for such a worthwhile cause.

“The support that our staff and customers have shown so far has been terrific. Everyone’s behind us and we really hope that all our fundraising efforts will help make a difference in Malvern.”

The M&S 125 Fundraising Challenge will culminate in a “Big Give Day” in September when each of the charities supported by M&S will be presented with a cheque for the money raised.