A SUPERMARKET ‘community champion’ is set to receive recognition in this year’s New Years honours list for her dedication and grit during the pandemic.

Rochelle Gardner, who works at Morrisons in Whitefield, will be honoured with a British Empire Medal for her ‘hands-on’ approach to her charitable work, since joining the supermarket in 2008.

Among her most celebrated acts of kindness was arranging for a young patient at Christie’s hospital to receive a personal letter from Manchester United FC.

Since joining Morrisons, she has used her position to raise money for hospices, schools and community groups and been an ambassador for the children’s charity, Young Lives Vs Cancer, for which she has raised over £15,000.

Throughout the pandemic, Rochelle helped to support vulnerable members of the Jewish community, even organising a virtual event to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, to bring residents together, despite the divisive and isolating circumstances.

Rochelle said: “I’m thrilled to be recognised for something I am so passionate about.

"I love playing a part in supporting our community and those around me. It really is an honour to do this for a job every day.”

Rochelle has been described as a ‘lifeline’ within her community and an inspiring example of a community champion, who goes above and beyond the call of duty.

David Potts, the supermarket chain’s Chief Executive, added: “During these unprecedented times, our colleagues have acted selflessly to adapt to ever-changing conditions and to put their customers first.

“I want to say a very big and heartfelt thank you to Rochelle - and to all our colleagues - for their enormous continuing contribution to their local communities and the country.”