Year-round support for 7th Heaven

The Newtownabbey-based group was nominated by Sainsbury’s customers at the beginning of July.

It will now receive a year’s worth of support through fundraising and awareness from the store.

Representatives from the charity joined Sainsbury’s colleagues over the weekend to kick-start the fundraising activities with a special launch day.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Billy Ashe, along with customers met representatives from the charity and learned more about the work they do.

Meanwhile, younger visitors were treated to face painting and balloon animal modelling.

A car boot sale also took place on Sunday in the car park of the Rodgers Quay store.

Stephen McMurray, treasurer and Trustee from 7th Heaven Animal Rescue Trust said: “Sainsbury’s Local Charity of the Year scheme has made a real difference too many charities over the last few years and we’re delighted to have been selected.

“We’re really looking forward to getting started and raising awareness of our cause as well as raising vital funds to continue our work in the community.”

Eddie Gowdy, store manager at Sainsbury’s Carrickfergus, added: “We’re really looking forward to working with 7th Heaven Animal Rescue Trust over the next year and the team have some great ideas for fundraising.

“We hope our support will make a real difference to the charity, and customer enjoy the variety of activities we are planning.”

The Local Charity scheme is now in its seventh year and has raised over £7 million to support local charities since 2009.