Muir has been recognised for its commitment to the environment after encouraging its employees to choose alternative ways to travel to and from work.

Muir scooped the award for Best Team (medium-sized category) as part of Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Travel Smarter Challenge.

The challenge encouraged businesses across Chester, Ellesmere Port and Neston to get their staff to commute to and from work by walking, cycling, using public transport and car sharing.

The staff at Muir rose to the challenge, saving over 120kg worth of CO2 emissions by choosing alternative and sustainable methods of transport to and from work. The challenge also saw staff burn off 7,176 calories in the process.

Muir actively encourages its staff to use sustainable methods of transport where possible. Since moving to their new head office in Chester in 2013, the housing association have installed a cycle hub, and provided staff with shower and changing facilities.

As well as receiving a trophy, Muir was also presented with a £150 donation for the charity of their choice. The donation was made to St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice, which cares for people suffering from cancer and other life threatening illnesses.

David Robinson, director of development at Muir said: “We are extremely proud to receive this award.

“We have worked very hard during the last year to help foster a different commuting environment. We have installed a bike rack and shower facilities at our new head office to offer an incentive to people who are looking to cycle to work.

“We’re also delighted to support St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice. It’s a service that offers amazing support to people and families who are suffering from life threatening illnesses.

“Our staff have been on board since day one and this award reflects their continued hard work and commitment.”