RAMSBOTTOM-based Marshalls has "tapped" into a major environmental award - thanks to its commitment to reduce water usage and disposal.

The company, which operates a thriving quarry at Fletcher Bank, has won the "process award" in the Business Commitment to the Environment (BCE) Awards.

The accolade recognises Marshalls' strong emphasis on environmental improvements.

Marshalls is the UK's manufacturer of superior concrete and natural stone products and the award applies to the company's operations both in Ramsbottom and at their Brookfoot Works near Halifax.

Alan Woods, Marshalls' director northern region, said: "Marshalls is leading the way within the industry in reducing water usage and waste disposal.

A combination of process water treatment and the use of captured rain water have been introduced in our factory based at Ramsbottom and Brookfoot.

"At Ramsbottom, a 90 per cent reduction in mains water consumption has been achieved, in addition to a reduction in process waste to landfill of 9,500 tonnes.

"Marshalls has also benefited in cost savings from the reduction of mains water usage by 65 per cent and of discharge process water by more than 90 per cent at Brookfoot works."

He added: "Work is continuing across all our manufacturing sites for them to become self sufficient in water usage in the future."

The top award was presented to the company by the then Environment Secretary David Miliband.

He said: "The businesses that have won these awards are examples that I will use to persuade others in the UK and internationally that addressing climate change does not damage competitiveness."