Doncaster resident rewarded by Mecca Bingo for their community work in lockdown

Over the last month, Mecca has been asking UK residents to nominate heroes from their communities who have gone above and beyond over the past 12 months, to offer services and help to those around them.

Nominated by Chantelle Roberts for his pet and DIY store, Lee has been chosen as one of Mecca’s community heroes and will be supported with a donation of £500 to ensure he can continue to provide his amazing work for his community. Through his store, Armthorpe Pet and Garden Supplies, Lee has ensured that local people could get supplies for their pets and homes delivered free of charge if they were isolating or shielding.

Lee is a much-loved member of the community, and travels to suppliers at all hours to make sure he is fully stocked with the items his customers need the most, so Mecca’s donation will allow Lee to continue to provide this amazing service, and allow him to add online ordering with card payments to his website.

Speaking about the recognition, Lee said: “I’m so shocked and honoured to be acknowledged by Mecca for this project. The shop is such a labour of love, and the £500 donation will do wonders for the people that we help each day. I want to thank Chantelle for nominating me, it’s fantastic to know that this venture has caught the eyes of friends in the community.”

Throughout each lockdown, the sense of community and togetherness has grown stronger than ever before, but with restrictions beginning to ease, Mecca Bingo felt it was time to launch a campaign to encourage the community work to continue by searching for incredible individuals to offer their help to.

Michelle Winfield, General Manager at Mecca Doncaster, said: “Mecca will always be a huge part of local communities across the UK, - we’ve been on the high street for 60 years. Through this campaign we wanted to reward individuals who play an active role to help others in need in their areas. Lee is such a worthy hero to us, so we’re thrilled that with our support he will be able to continue his community spirit going forwards.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.