Sainsbury’s staff put heart and soul into raising £3,000 for Kelso Heartbeat

Workers at Sainsbury’s cycled a mile every day in May in aid of Kelso Heartbeat, a charity which provides and maintains public access defibrillators as well as training towsfolk in how to use the potentially life-saving equipment.

On top of the cycling challenge, some staff members shaved their heads in return for donations to their online fundraising page, which pulled in £2,877 for the charity.

Customer experience manager, Lesa Learmonth, said: “I am so proud of our team here in Sainsbury’s Kelso. We all pulled together to raise this fantastic amount of money for a well deserving local charity.

“We decided we just wanted to give something back to our local community.

“I’m not going to lie it was tough at times, but we all kept each other going, cheering each other on along the way.”

A small, socially-distanced presentation was held at the in Pinnaclehill Industrial estate store to present the donation to volunteer first aid trainers and fundraisers from Kelso Heartbeat, who were joined by Borders MP John Lamont.

Mr Lamont added: “Supermarket workers have had a pretty difficult time over the last three months, ensuring that the shop shelves are stocked, and their customers are safe.

“That’s why it is particularly outstanding that they have been able to raise this money for charity as well. Kelso Heartbeat provide lifesaving equipment and training to their community and will no doubt make great use of this cash boost.”