SHOPPERS have given hundreds of pounds to local causes through a superstore’s donation scheme.

Asda store, in Stanley, raised about £900 thanks to its Green Token scheme. The store handed over £500 to the Northumbria Blood Bikes and a sum of £200 each to St Stephen’s Community Centre Craft and Chat club and the Derwentside Amateur Swimming Club.

Northumbria Blood Bikes fundraising manager Kirsty Lawrence, said: “The money that we receive through donations are essential to the operation of our charity. As we do not receive any government funding every aspect of our charity relies on money from companies and individuals.

“The funds that Asda are supporting us with will go towards the running costs of our fleet, enabling us to keep our vehicles on the road so that we can help to contribute to saving lives of those in our region. We could be having the ride of your life.”

Carol Roberts, manager and administrator at St. Stephen’s Community Centre, said: “The donations from Asda’s Green Token scheme will be invaluable for us, as they will allow us to provide a much-needed service for vulnerable people in our community.

"Our aim is to reach out to as many local people as possible to help reduce the risk of social isolation, and this scheme is providing us with the much-needed funds to do that."

The donation to the Derwentside Amateur Swimming Club will help provide training and opportunities to young swimmers in the area.

Marsha Spence, community colleague at Asda Stanley, said: “The Green Token donation scheme is a great way for our customers to give back to causes that are important to them and the local community.

"These are some great charities that are getting the money they need, thanks to our shoppers.”