Charity names can van after Asda Inverness's tireless fundraising community champion

The amazing team at Highland and Islands Blood Bikes have named their new fundraising van after our Inverness store's community champion Helen Robertson to thank her for all her hard work and support.

The charity was established in 2019 to courier vital medical supplies and blood and Covid samples free of charge to the NHS.

Former nurse Helen, who's been community champion at the store for two years, says she's honoured by the charity's gesture.

She said: "It was a very, very emotional day and I'm really proud, but I'm just doing my job. I wasn't expecting anything like this. I just helped them out because they were so desperate for money and it was a case of we've got to do something for them.

"I love my job and I love helping charities. I've helped charities all my life. My mum was a great charity working so it's in the blood you can say!

"The blood bikers are all volunteers and rely on what funds they can raise themselves. During the pandemic I had buckets out to try to raise some funds for them and I also made 'food packages' for the volunteers which they could literally grab and go. They could be working 12 to 15 hours and they don't have time to stop to eat. It's wonderful what they do and they are a great bunch, they really are."

"Since I started as a community champion I've built up such a relationship with small local charities like this."

Asda regional manager Michelle Anderson, who joined Helen at the ceremony, said: "We are so proud of you Helen. Well done and thank you for all you do supporting our local communities."

Chris Grant, from Highlands and Islands Blood Bikes, said they were indebted to Asda and Helen in particular for all their support with fundraising events.

He said: "We were able to add a van to our fleet a few months ago for inclement weather and for transporting our fundraising equipment. Our motorcycles are named, normally by a sponsor, so it was decided to name the van "Helen" along with the Asda community logo to show our appreciation for all the assistance given. Helen's enthusiasm has been fantastic."