Treat on the Thames forsisters Irene and Arlene

Arlene Thompson, contributor of the Larne Time’s’ popular weekly recipe column, was nominated by her managers in Sainsbury’s for a special treat set aside for colleagues who do a great job for the supermarket giants and also spend time caring for a family member or friend who needs their support outside of work.

As a key partner of Carers UK, Sainsbury’s are hosting a group of colleagues who are also carers to be on the Sainsbury’s boat along the Thames in the Jubilee Flotilla over the jubilee weekend.

Arlene helps care for her parents, following her father’s rapid ill health. And when Arlene heard she had been chosen as one of the lucky recipients, she said it gave her a real lift.

“I’m so impressed that Sainsbury’s is such a great company that they recognise colleagues who juggle home and caring responsibilities along with doing their job as best they can,”” she said.

Arlene’s once-in-a-lifetime treat includes travel to London, tickets to the Hyde Park fun day on Saturday and then to take part in the seven-mile long jubilee flotilla – made up of an impressive 1,000 vessels – on the Sainsbury’s Golden Jubilee boat on Sunday.

But a real added bonus is that she was able to choose a guest to take along and join in the celebrations.

“I chose to take my sister Irene McGookin as she is also involved in caring for both our parents and has been a great strength when things have not been so easy.

““It’s great that there was an option to bring a guest and Irene really is always there at my right hand so she really deserves the treat too,”” said Arlene. Picture – page 1