Local charity volunteer Nicola Allen, 62, has been named one of SPAR’s Everyday Champions in recognition of people who contribute to their communities.

Nicola has raised more than £20,000 for local causes. She has volunteered for multiple charities, supported elderly residents during the pandemic, raised funds for laptops to help women access digital support, improved wheelchair access at community venues, and organised events that boost the visibility of local charities.

On her 60th birthday, she even completed a skydive to raise £1,500 for a bereavement charity supporting families who have lost a child.

She was honoured at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, where she met Olympic Champion Colin Jackson CBE and was recognised for her extraordinary contribution to charities and community groups across Hastings, Eastbourne and East Sussex.

Nicola Allen pictured with Colin Jackson.

placeholder image — Nicola Allen pictured with Colin Jackson.

As part of her experience, Nicola joined the other Everyday Champions for an exclusive behind‑the‑scenes tour of the stadium led by British world and European champion sprinter Richard Kilty. At age 16, Kilty finished second at the UK Inter‑Counties Championships and took part in the SPAR Sprints Initiative at Loughborough University – an early milestone in his athletics career. He showed the winners around the venue, gave them the chance to run on the track, and introduced them to the official who famously disqualified Usain Bolt.

A spokesperson for SPAR said: “The campaign reflects new research commissioned by SPAR showing that, despite modern pressures, 64% of Britons have helped someone in their community in the past year – from donating food to checking in on elderly neighbours. As a retailer rooted in communities across the UK, SPAR sees these acts every day in its stores and is committed to recognising the people who quietly keep local life connected.”

Nicola said: “I love helping people – it’s just part of who I am. Every charity I support means something to me, and I’m proud to give back to the community I care about. Being recognised by SPAR and meeting Colin was truly special.”

Colin Jackson said: “Nicola’s energy, generosity and determination are remarkable. She has transformed lives across East Sussex through her fundraising and community work. She is a shining example of what an Everyday Champion looks like and I’m delighted SPAR has honoured her.”