Clubsport, a sports shop chain with retail units across the Marches, including in Ross-on-Wye, has bagged thousands of pounds for two Herefordshire charities after introducing a carrier bag charge despite being exempt.

Clubsport doesn’t have to charge customers for its bags because it falls below the minimum number of staff needed to meet the Government criteria to do so.

But Managing Director Simon Hussey decided to charge the 5p anyway, saying most customers are more than happy to part with the small charge as they know it supports good causes.

Back in 2016, Simon raised just over £200 through the same scheme, but proceeds have been substantially boosted in the past 12 months after he extended the idea to other retail businesses that Clubsport partners across the UK.

This has helped the firm raise the huge amount of £5,780, which has been split equally between St Michael’s Hospice and the Little Princess Trust.

“My mum died at St Michael’s Hospice 12 years ago and she was looked after so well there, so it’s a pleasure to support them. It provides a wonderful service to the community,” he said.

“Some customers have said ‘no’ to paying the 5p, but most happily do so, with some even giving us £1 for a bag after being told it is going to charity. We’ll definitely be looking to continue doing this.”

Ruth Denison, the Hospice’s Director of Income and Marketing said: “We’re delighted that Clubsport has continued to raise money for St Michael’s, particularly as they don’t have to charge for the bags in the first place.”

“So, thank you to Simon and all his colleagues for supporting us in this way.”

The Hereford-based Little Princess Trust, where the same amount is going, provides free real hair wigs to children and young adults experiencing hair loss through cancer treatment or other illnesses.