THE new woman at the helm of Haydon Bridge’s Co-op store is already branching out into the community.

Sally Roughley arrived at the Ratcliffe Road store earlier this month, and this week oversaw the launch of a new scheme which will benefit three local worthy causes.

The mum-of-three has joined the Co-op having spent 17 years working for Sainsbury’s at Carlisle, Wigan, Bolton, Preston, Manchester and Colne in Lancashire.

Sally, who is originally from Wigan, says she has received a warm welcome in the village. She explained: “I’ve never worked in a rural community before, but I really do like it here.

“The Co-op has been at the heart of Haydon Bridge for years, and I’ve spoken to some customers who have been shopping here all their lives.”

Sally began her career in the hotels and banqueting industry, before joining Sainsbury’s 17 years ago, and moving into management positions.

One of her first tasks on arrival in Haydon Bridge has been to launch the Co-op’s new membership card scheme.

Whilst five per cent of what customers spend goes into their membership account for personal savings, the Co-op gives one percent to the community.

Local organisations were invited to apply to become beneficiaries of the scheme, and Sally this week announced which causes had been successful.

The Haydon Bridge Development Trust which works on various local projects will benefit.

Another beneficiary will be the Haydon Bridge Community Association, which is keen to provide another defibrillator for the village.

In addition, the scheme will also support Bardon Mill and Henshaw village hall, which is raising funds for new social area to bring isolated members of the community together.

Sally added: “One of the appeals of the Co-op is the work it does for charities and the community.”

joseph.tulip@hexham-courant.co.uk