PAM Stuchbury's kind and friendly nature earned her the title of "Auntie Pam" at work. Now it has also earned her a prestigious award to celebrate her happy presence on the checkouts at a Horwich supermarket.

Pam, aged 56, was nominated for an "Asda Oscar" award by colleagues at the the store's Middlebrook branch for her cheery outlook and for her fundraising efforts for the Equip an Ambulance charity which has been adopted by Asda.

The cause is very close to Pam's heart following the death of her son.

Andrew, aged 33, died after an accident with a car while riding his bicycle on Chorley New Road in 2001.

Pam said: "I wanted to support and raise money for the ambulance group because of what happened to Andrew.

"I can't believe that I have been given this award. Everyone at the store has said they are really proud of me and my husband Bill and son Paul, too."

Pam has worked for the Asda store on the checkouts for five years.

General Manager Trish Pemberton said: "Pamela is a star. She is always there at her checkout, smiling and helping customers.

"She's the first to volunteer to help and her fancy dress costumes for our fun days are legendary.

"She has already raised more than £5,000 towards the £10,000 target for the ambulance."

Pam gained one of just seven Oscars to be awarded by Asda at its stores across the country.

"To be judged one of the best out of nearly 20,000 members of staff is an amazing tribute to her. We are all very proud of her achievement and a little humbled," Trish said.

Pam received her award at a ceremony in Harrogate in front of 2,000 managers and colleagues.

She said: "The night was amazing."