Telford Asda worker checking out after 25 years in job
A Telford supermarket community champion who has helped to raise thousands of pounds for charity will be retiring after 25 years.
Vicky Patterson, who works at Asda Telford, in Malinsgate, began working on the tills at the store a quarter of a decade ago, but has done her community champion role for more than 20 years.
The 61-year-old, from Hadley, has worked with a long list of community groups and charities during her time at the store.
But she will be finishing on Friday
She said: "At the start it was about doing a lot of events in store for the customers and fundraising.
"Lately, it's been a case of going out in the community and finding groups that need your help."
The grandmother-of-three has helped out in schools, at groups supporting the disabled and with fundraising for charity.
She has helped to organise tombolas, raffles and car boot sales which have pulled in funding for cancer charities, hospices and Children In Need.
"We've smashed our target every time," she said.
"The people in Telford are really generous.
"I've enjoyed every minute of it. The job role is so rewarding. I will miss it but I will continue to volunteer where I can.
"I've worked with some wonderful people in store and out. I want to thank them all for supporting me through my 25 years."
Nigel Palmer, general store manager, said she will be sorely missed.
He said: "She's been a fantastic colleague. She's done so much for the community. "She's forged an amazing relationship with local charities and organisations. "Those relationships will live on even though she is retiring.
"We want to wish her a great retirement and thank her for her contribution.
"She will be sorely missed."
Mrs Patterson, who has seen 16 store managers come through the door since she started working at Asda Telford, will be retiring at the same time as her 66-year-old husband, Keith.
Speaking about her plans for retirement, Mrs Patterson said: "We want to take swimming back up and do plenty of walking."
