Wigan Council leader Lord Peter Smith has this week been meeting some of Leigh’s top fundraisers on the aisles of the Asda superstore.
Manager Mark Hill told Cllr Smith: “We’re proud to support causes like Tickled Pink, Children in Need and the local hospice.” His staff are encouraged to do their bit and Mark has climbed Snowdon to raise funds and colleagues bake special cakes to sell in support of various charities.
In recognition of their work in the community, Cllr Smith wanted to meet managers at Asda to hear about how the supermarket uses its premises and staff in support of good causes.
Manager Mark, his events co-ordinator Matthew Sanderson and Cllr Smith discussed the many local causes who apply to use foyer space for fundraising, or that the store supports in other ways. As one of Leigh’s biggest employers, with 550 people working at the site, Asda are keen that their workforce gives something back locally as well.
Cllr Smith said: “It’s wonderful to hear how staff here take their role in the community so seriously. Supporting Leigh sportsmen and women, as well as local brass bands and many other worthwhile causes deserves high praise and demonstrates the importance of partnership between business and the wider community.”
The Tickled Pink campaign for breast cancer raised some £2274 from Asda colleagues and shoppers and similar amounts have gone to a wide range of charities in the area. Each Asda employs someone to lead on campaigns and events to ensure all causes can bid for space or time equally.
Events co-ordinator Matthew Sanderson added: “We want to make a positive contribution to the town, and we participate in careers advices sessions in schools as well as encouraging all colleagues to get involved in charity work. Customers are wonderful and very generous.”
Cllr Smith also met two Hindley ladies who work in store, Janice Bithell and Mary Gorner, both of whom are seasoned fundraisers, to thank them for their positive example and sense of fun and community spirit.
