WORKERS at a supermarket fundraised for a hospital that cared for a staff member.

The team at Tesco Express in Station Road, Burnham-on-Crouch, donated a host of toys, games, craft materials and equipment to Phoenix Ward, Broomfield Hospital after walking over the o2 to raise the cash.

They joined together to raise the funds with their charity champion at the store, customer adviser Beverly O’Connor, having been inspired by the care of their colleague’s son, Joshua Pells.

Joshua is nine months old and has Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, for which he has received care at Broomfield Hospital since birth.

The condition has resulted in numerous tumour growths throughout most of his organs and issues including respiratory problems and hyperinsulinism, an above normal level of insulin in the blood.

Beverly and her colleague, customer adviser Sandra Stefano, contacted the Phoenix Ward team to find out what supplies they needed – generously spending £1,046 on their wish list. The money was raised through a sponsored walk over the O2 and donations from shoppers.

Katie Tammaro, customer adviser, said: “Bev reminded shoppers to donate all the time. The locals also donated unwanted DVDs, games, books, craft bits, and toiletries etc. that their children had outgrown or they had spare.

“The walk was led by Pam Noble, who set a really high pace for us all to follow. It was a lovely day and we all felt proud to be a part of it for the Phoenix Ward in Josh's name.”

The walk was completed by colleagues Katie Tammaro, Sandra Stefano, Amanda Galloway, Pam Noble, Melanie Rozeboom and India Lea.