Supermarket names charity of the year

The charity was one of three charities nominated by staff to go forward for the customer vote.

Sainsbury’s cafe manager Andie Richardson, said: “Our customers voted in huge numbers in favour of Autism East Midlands and we are really excited about the prospect of championing such a worthwhile local cause over the next year.”

The new partnership was unveiled at an in-store launch at the weekend and fundraising is already underway with a children’s colouring completion in the café. The store has plans for a weekend of fundraising starting tomorrow with a story corner for children, staff fancy dress and in-store collections.

Melanie Howard, head of income generation at Autism East Midlands, said: “We’re immensely grateful to the customers for their votes and to the staff at Sainsbury’s Ripley for all their hard work and enthusiasm. Their support over the coming year means we will be able to help even more local families.”