A local superstore showed real Christmas spirit by helping a family stuck in the snow last week.

SUFFOLK: A local superstore showed real Christmas spirit by helping a family stuck in the snow last week.

John and Annette Curtin, 72, of Potkins Lane, Orford, were picking up their daughter and two grandchildren, who live in Melbourne, Australia, from Heathrow Airport last Thursday night when they became stranded in the snow.

With only 15 miles of the 150 mile trip to go, the Curtins decided near the Tesco superstore at Martlesham that the heavy snow fall was too hazardous to continue the journey.

After explaining the situation to night staff at the store, the family were not only welcomed to stay over night, but airbeds and duvets were set up for them in the training room and hot drinks provided for when they woke up.

John Curtin said: “The people at Tesco were so lovely; I just can't get over it.

“When I explained to them that my grandchildren had only just flown in from Australia and had been up for 48 hours, they couldn't have been more helpful.

“To be honest, the whole thing turned from being a tiresome ordeal to a great adventure, especially for the kids who don't see snow at home.”

After not seeing each other for over three years, spending a night in the local supermarket was certainly an eventful start to the family's festive reunion.

John Curtin added: “It's just made me realise that even if we live in harsh times, when the chips are down we are, at heart, a kind race of people. Thank you to everyone who helped.”