Volunteer chef for the homeless named Long Eaton’s ‘Local Hero’

Management of a company with a base in Long Eaton have chosen a local hero for inspirational work carried out as a chef preparing meals for the homeless.

Company Shop officials selected Laura Oldershaw after recently launching a national campaign encouraging store members and local people to nominate themselves, loved ones, colleagues, and members of the community as their region’s Local Hero.

Laura has been described as "an invaluable member" of 'Sharing the Love', a local charity that encourages people looking to make a difference in their area to work together with other community groups to support the homeless, families in need, the elderly and young people.

As a volunteer, Laura takes time away from her studies and busy role as a mum for her two young children to cook meals for around 30 homeless people at a local food kitchen every week.  She also delivers food to those in need around Long Eaton and Derbyshire, including vulnerable elderly people.

Laura’s support for the community has been rewarded with a £100 voucher to spend in store along with some other benefits.

Throughout the pandemic, the company worked on a national scale and with partners to ensure families had access to essential food and products. Its latest Local Hero initiative is just one of the many ways that the company fulfills its ongoing commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those most in need, both locally and nationally.

Store Manager, Linda Bunkle, said: “The past year has been an incredibly challenging period for everyone, and we wanted to recognise the amazing individuals and frontline workers across our community who’ve gone above and beyond to make a difference to those in need. This campaign is our way of giving something back to unsung heroes as a way of saying thank you for all their hard work. 

“We received many nominations from the local community, and whilst it wasn’t easy making the final decision, we are really pleased to have chosen Laura for her lovely work ensuring those less fortunate don’t go hungry. I also would like to thank everyone for embracing this latest community initiative.”