Construction materials manufacturer Acheson and Glover has collected a major UK environmental award for its work in helping to safeguard an endangered species of crayfish.

The company received the Green Organisation's Green Heroes 2008 shield from the leading botanist and television personality Professor David Bellamy OBE at a recent ceremony at the Tower of London.

The shields are presented annually to UK companies, councils and communities involved in projects that enhance environment and who wish to share their experience and knowledge.

Acheson and Glover's efforts have involved the creation of a purpose-built habitat bay in Evishanoran Lake in Pomeroy. It is at this location that the company's gravel washing activities have helped to create the alkaline water conditions ideal for the White-clawed crayfish. The scheme - which is being led by Ballinderry River Enhancement Association - is unique in Ireland.

Now widely recognised for its pioneering environmental initiatives, Acheson and Glover is one of the largest manufacturers of concrete products on the island of Ireland. Headquartered in Fivemiletown, it employs 800 people at 17 sites throughout the UK and Ireland and has an annual turnover of almost £100 million.

The company's latest award-winning project will be featured in the next Green Book, the worlds' only work of reference on environmental best practice.

The Green Apple Awards campaign is run by The Green Organisation, an independent, non-political, non-profit organisation that recognises, rewards and promotes environmental best practice around the world.

National Organiser Roger Wolens commented: "Organisations, such as Acheson and Glover, that go the extra mile and become Green Heroes are demonstrating a serious commitment to the world around them.

They invest in a better future for us all and deserve to be recognised for their efforts."