A SOUTHGATE theatre group has been chosen as Sainsbury's official charity for the second year running.

An "overwhelming number" of shoppers at Sainsbury's Highlands Village store, in Florey Square, Winchmore Hill, voted for Chickenshed to be the shop's Charity of the Year.

The store raised more than £5,600 last year following a series of activities and events.

Initiatives included bag packing, collection buckets, sponsored karaoke, a 400-mile cyle ride, an in-store treasure hunt and several fancy dress events.

The money raised was used to fund two Chickenshed terms and 14 performances of Tales from the Shed, the show for under-sevens.

Susan Jamson, Chickenshed spokesman, said: "Sainsbury's funded so many things all across the country, they were absolutely sensational.

"They were really passionate. It wasn't just an isolated group of people, but all the staff took on different initiatives, which was wonderful."

Every Sainsbury's store across the country selects a local charity every year on which it focuses fundraising efforts.

Customers choose the charity by filling in forms handed out by staff.

Daniel Addis, PR ambassador for Sainsbury's, said: "An overwhelming number of customers chose Chickenshed, much more than any other charity.

"It's very close to a lot of people's hearts, as they either have children and grandchildren who attend, or they enjoy going along to shows themselves.

"It's very different from other charities. It's primarily for children and young people, and spreads the message that everyone should be treated as equals, without prejudice."

Chickenshed will be presenting its Tales from the Shed show at the store at 1pm on Wednesday.

For more information about the theatre group, which is based at Rayne's Theatre, in Chase Side, visit www.chickenshed.org.uk.