CHRISTMAS came early for a local charity group, after a generous donation and some festive fun from Santa’s little helpers at Asda Alloa.

The Tullibody Civic Centre, which plays host to a range of societies and events in the local area all year round for those of all ages and interests, was gifted £495 by the Asda Foundation’s Hidden Heroes campaign, in recognition for their amazing work for the local community throughout 2016.

The money was used to provide a show-stopping party at the centre, which played host to around 35 pensioners from the community. The elderly guests were treated to a delicious meal, laid on by outside caterers, to bring some festive fun this Christmas season.

The senior attendees enjoyed a wonderful festive atmosphere at the event and were also treated to a special Christmas gift. A group of cheerful community volunteers made sure the evening was a great success, along with Asda Alloa’s dedicated community champion, Joanna Scobie, who helped to host the festive event.

The Hidden Heroes campaign is celebrating the hard work – that often goes unrecognised – of the volunteers and carers who dedicate their own time and efforts to helping other people.

Supported by grants from the Asda Foundation, its aim is to help spread festive cheer in local communities throughout December, helping to highlight the selfless work of hidden heroes locally and helping to fund Christmas parties for those who may need a little extra support this Christmas time.

Joanna Scobie, community champion at Asda Alloa, said: “The volunteers at the Tullibody Civic Centre are brilliant and, without a doubt, the real Hidden Heroes of our community. It is a privilege to be able to help the group in this way and continue to support the community in any way we can.”

Doreen Turner, treasurer, at the Tullibody Civic Centre, added: “We had a great time with Asda today, and Joanna provided some welcome Christmas cheer for our members.

“This donation and the continued support of Asda are extremely useful in helping us continue our work, and we can’t thank the team at Asda Alloa enough for all their support.”

Set up in 1988, the Asda Foundation is a registered charity that aims to have a positive impact on local communities, making independent grants to provide support to a range of local good causes, chosen by Asda’s community life colleagues throughout the UK.

It funds charitable projects and activities what have the ability and potential to achieve change for the better – with the aim of making a significant difference to local communities and the people who live there, both now and in the future.

To find out more about the Asda Foundation, or eligibility for submitting a funding application for 2017, go to charities.asda.com/asda-foundation