Community champion Catharine throws surprise party for Trafford Veterans

Our Trafford Park store's community champion Catharine Arnold works closely with the Trafford Veterans and especially their breakfast club – so was only too happy to help them lay on a special Christmas surprise.

More than 80 veterans, emergency services personnel, volunteers and their families enjoyed a special festive breakfast at Flixton Cricket Club, complete with a brass band, stilt walkers, a magician and a singer.

Claire Squires, who runs the group with husband Chris, said: "It was so extravagant, and everyone absolutely loved it!

"We normally have 22 volunteers who put that event on so it was really nice that they got to sit down themselves and get a meal. It was fabulous and the entertainment was really good.

"We knew Asda was putting it on for us, but we didn't know any of the details. It was a surprise for us all on the day. We were honoured and very grateful and everyone is still talking about it."

Her mum Linda Wright, who attended the event, said: "I thought it was absolutely wonderful and Asda did us proud. And Catharine ... what can I say about Catharine apart from what a lovely lady. She is so helpful and kind. She always helps me out in the kitchen which I am very grateful for. She's such a hard worker."

Catharine, who's formed a strong relationship with the group over the years, said: "It really was an amazing day, wonderful, and everyone had a great time. They knew they were coming to something Asda had organised but they never expected anything like this. There were surprises galore. They couldn't believe it.

"On top of the party we also donated new tea urns, plates, cutlery and cups to help the breakfast club running for the next year.

"Claire and Chris are amazing and help so many people in our local area and further afield. They both deserve the world for all their help in the community. We are so glad all the volunteers had their breakfast sitting down too and looked after."

"A big thank you to everyone who helped to organise the party and to those who attended, it was a day to remember. I'm still getting comments from people who said it was simply amazing."

Earlier this year Catharine helped Trafford Veterans secure a £25,000 grant from the Asda Foundation to fit out a van to help veterans.