A SUPERMARKET worker has been handpicked for a once in a lifetime trip to the USA in recognition of her commitment to helping children with autism.

Jenny Barnett, who is a community champion at Asda Middlesbrough, invented the Happy Little Helpers initiative to help children with autism cope with the stresses of food shopping with family.

The scheme is now being rolled out nationwide and Ms Barnett has been selected to become one of only a handful of people in the UK selected to attend a Walmart conference in Arkansas.

The conference always promises surprise appearances from celebrity guests, with last year's meeting hosting pop superstar Katy Perry – previous guests include Mariah Carey, Pharrell Williams and Tom Cruise.

Ms Barnett said: “I’m excited and very proud to be going to the USA to represent Middlesbrough and Asda, it really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“I can’t wait to meet some of my international colleagues and learn more about the different ways in which they provide brilliant service where they work – and I’ll be telling them all about the how we keep our customers happy here, too.”

Steven White, store manager at Asda Middlesbrough, said: “I’m sure all those that are going will have lots of fun but also find it a really rewarding experience.”