Washington grandmother who was honoured by the Queen retires after working in Asda for 28 years

Maureen Wallwork, who was honoured by the Queen for her work as an Asda community champion, is set to retire after 28 years of working for the supermarket chain.
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Described as an “absolute legend” by the colleagues she works with, 71-year-old Maureen Wallwork from Blackfell, is set to retire after working at Asda’s Washington store for 28 years.

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Over the 28 years, the grandmother became a familiar face within the local community as she worked with the likes of Age UK, the Royal British Legion and Friends of Sulgrave Manor.

Maureen Wallwork with her British Empire Medal (BEM) that she received in 2017 for her services to charity.Maureen Wallwork with her British Empire Medal (BEM) that she received in 2017 for her services to charity.
Maureen Wallwork with her British Empire Medal (BEM) that she received in 2017 for her services to charity.

Maureen also ensured that she was a big part in the supermarket chain’s Tickled Pink breast cancer charity campaign and Fight Hunger Create Change initiative – driving both causes within the Washington store.

Asda Washington store manager, Steve Mckenna, has commented that she will be missed not only by all of her colleagues but the local causes that she helped.

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He said: "I've known Maureen since I started as night shift manager in Washington 24 years ago. She's such a warm, caring person who will do anything for anyone and becoming community champion was just a natural role for her.

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"Her work in the community has been amazing and we were all so proud when was awarded the British Empire Medal.

"She will be sorely missed by everyone here at Asda Washington – colleagues, customers and the boat loads of charities and groups that she helped."

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