The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Tesco deliveries to remote community return
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Supermarket bosses had withdrawn Strathnaver from its catchment area several months ago, citing pressure on drivers’ working hours.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.