The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)

Tesco deliveries to remote community return

- BY ALISTAIR MUNRO

A remote Highland community is finally getting deliveries from supermarke­t giant Tesco after a surprise U-turn by the chain.

Residents of Strathnave­r, in Sutherland, were left fuming when Tesco withdrew the service earlier this year – and to add insult to injury, they had to watch as delivery vans continued to drive past their homes to reach other rural locations. But following a long campaign by 61-year-old Steve Bernard, highlighte­d in a series of articles by The Press and Journal, Tesco has “seen common sense” and reintroduc­ed the service.

Supermarke­t bosses had withdrawn Strathnave­r from its catchment area several months ago, citing pressure on drivers’ working hours.

However, residents have been informed that the Strathnave­r postcode has now been added to the computer system to allow deliveries, to be made from the nearest store in Wick, 45 miles away.

Mr Bernard, a full-time carer for his 90-year-old mother, said: “It is amazing they have finally relented and have decided to see common sense.

“Everyone in Strathnave­r is very pleased. I am seen as a local hero for continuall­y pestering the firm, but this is also thanks to the Press and Journal.

“Tesco have obviously seen sense after seeing the adverse media coverage it was getting.”

Mr Bernard said: “The delivery service is essential for me because I care full-time for my mother.

“There is no local shop and it meant having to make a 90mile round trip and leaving my mum during that time.”

A Tesco spokesman said: “We will always try and serve our customers.” He added that this was a temporary offering which will be reviewed in the new year.

 ??  ?? SURPRISED: Steve Bernard, who campaigned to have Tesco reinstate deliveries, is delighted the store has done so
SURPRISED: Steve Bernard, who campaigned to have Tesco reinstate deliveries, is delighted the store has done so

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