McColl's staff across the North-East raise thousands for RNLI Redcar

Throughout October and November, staff from McColl's stores have got together holding raffles, tombola's, prize draws, fancy dress events and coffee mornings, raising more than £2,700 in cash.

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Presenting a cheque to volunteers at RNLI Redcar lifeboat station this week, Tim Farrow McColl's, area manager for the North-East, said: "It has been a pleasure to help the RNLI in this way.

"We thoroughly enjoyed the fundraising activities across our regional store network.

"We targeted 22 stores that have a RNLI presence in their catchment area and together they have raised £2,708.13p."

Each of the 22 stores had been given a target of £100 to achieve after a senior store manager witnessed the vital work of the RNLI during a trip to Blackpool.

Howard Smith, Deputy Launching Authority at RNLI Redcar, said: "This is an amazing donation.

"As a charity, the RNLI depends entirely on donations and legacies to carry out its life-saving work.

"The money will be used here at Redcar to support the work of our volunteer crews and we’re very grateful to have such tremendous support from the local community."

Tony Jamieson, left, and Bob O’Neill who have both achieved 50 years of RNLI service

Before Christmas, Tony Jamieson and Bob O'Neill, who both started volunteering for the RNLI in 1969, celebrated 100 years of combined service at the charity.

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Mr Farrow of McColl's added: "It was truly inspirational to see the support that our customers and staff gave to the events and the donations received were tremendous.

"Good Luck everyone – the work of the RNLI is exceptional and we are proud to help support this charity and volunteers."