The application was submitted jointly by the Alderney Wildlife Trust and the States of Alderney earlier this year. It was supported by Alderney Shipping, who have delivered the filling station to the island cost free. The fund is sponsored by Bunzel Plc, with the station provided by MIW Water Cooler Experts.

The purpose of the fund is to reduce the impact of single-use plastic water bottles on coastal habitats by funding communities to install water drinking fountains in busy or environmentally important areas. Braye Beach was selected due to its regular use and popularity by residents and visitors.

Dr Mel Broadhurst-Allen, Living Seas Coordinator of the Alderney Wildlife Trust said “We are all thrilled to have won this award to purchase a water bottle filling station on Alderney. It is another step towards Alderney becoming a plastic free community in the long term. We are extremely grateful to the GSC, Alderney Shipping, Sea-Changers and MIW to enable this initiative.”

Boyd Kelly, Member of the States of Alderney, Chairman of General Services Committee: “I am extremely grateful to Dr. Broadhurst-Allen for bringing to the attention of the General Services Committee the opportunity to win the fund that has enabled us to install another water filler on one of the island’s popular beaches. Any measure designed to reduce the amount of plastic used and discarded is to be welcomed and hopefully this filler will be well used.“