THE East End is the “most generous community in Glasgow” and its spirit has come to the fore during the Covid-19 pandemic.

That’s the view of Tesco Parkhead’s community champion Susan Wilson, who believes the area has gone above and beyond during a difficult year.

From toybank drives to delivering essential items to pensioners, Susan is sure the pandemic has brought out the best in ordinary Glaswegians in a challenging time.

“People in the East End help people,” Susan, 56, said. “I honestly think we are the most generous.

“They say we are from a poor area but everyone looks after everyone else. That’s what we do.

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“Everyone has been doing something different during all of this but we are all pulling together. We’re all doing something to help each other.”

For half a decade, Susan has fronted the supermarket’s community efforts, working closely with East End partners and doing what she can to help others in less fortunate circumstances.

It means she is in a unique position to celebrate the “overwhelming kindness” that’s been shown by “so many people” during her most challenging year yet.

“I always feel and always say we are the heart of the community because of the work we do,” Susan, who says she was inspired to take on the role by her mum Jan O’Neill, added.

“In the few days before the pandemic, I managed to get some of our elderly customers’ numbers and we were able to take them wee hampers. We still check up on them to make sure they are still receiving the help.

“It’s about making sure our elders are looked after. The generosity of people has still been strong.”

While the pandemic has continued to wreak havoc on locals’ daily lives, Susan and Tesco’s partners were determined to not let it stop them from helping others.

Working alongside the likes of FARE, Glasgow Caring City, and the Urban Fox, foodbank drives have been launched, clothing has been gathered, and it’s now hoped a toy appeal will provide as many as 500 gifts to children in the East End.

“Our big thing this year is we have a trolley set up for people to donate brand new toys,” Susan, who also volunteers with Allotment Angels in Dennistoun, said. “We are working with Parkhead Salvation Army, who in turn are working with the social services.

“It’s for up to 500 children who have been identified as needing help and it’s for children in the East End.

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“People can donate to the Salvation Army or they can bring the toys into us.

“We have the Glasgow North East Foodbank and that’s a permanent feature with us. It does do very well and we are always overwhelmed by the donations we receive.”

To get involved in the work being done by Susan and the Tesco team, visit the Parkhead store.

Got an East End story? Email jack.haugh@newsquest.co.uk and join our East End Community Group on Facebook.