STAFF at a Basingstoke supermarket took part in a charity cycle and ice bucket challenge, to raise money for two charities helping children and young people.

Staff at Morrisons, in Worting Road, took part in the challenges on Saturday, September 9 to raise funds for Naomi House & Jacksplace, and Together for Short Lives.

Senior operations manager Chris Thomas cycled 50k on a static bike, accompanied by a colleague Emma Benjamin, as the duo greeted customers and raised funds for the charities.

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Emma said: "We’re really happy to be here in the store and meeting the local community all the while raising some much-needed funds for fantastic charities in Naomi House and Jacksplace, and Together for Short Lives."

Staff members have been taking part in a number of charitable events over the past few weeks, with Morrisons set to match the amount raised before donating to the two charities. The amount raised currently stands at over £6,000.

Chris completed the 50k cycle in good time, before taking part in an ice bucket challenge outside the store, to the delight of his colleagues. 

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Store manager Jag Dhaliwal also took part, as did borough and county councillor Arun Mummalaneni.

Cllr Mummalaneni said: "Thank you to Morrisons for taking the cause on and raising an amazing amount of funds. I encourage other local supermarkets to support local charities and the community.

"Making the effort is always appreciated, and well done to all those involved."

Senior operations manager Chris Thomas and store manager Jag Dhaliwal said: "The cold water was actually quite nice bearing in mind how hot it was.

"We're really happy with the amount of money we've raised, so thank you to everyone who has contributed in some way. The funds will be well received by these fantastic charities, and we're thrilled to have the opportunity to take part and do our bit for the community."

Naomi House & Jacksplace are hospices supporting children and young with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses. 

Together for Short Lives is a UK charity which ensures seriously ill children and their families can make the most of every moment they have together.