Well-wishers have raised more than £10,000 in memory of a popular Tesco worker in Blackburn.

Hasina Karolia was just 52 when she died of cancer in November last year. She had worked at the Tesco store on Hill Street for 31 years.

Hasina who worked on the checkout and on the shop floor and had touched the hearts of many colleagues and shoppers, her family said. Hasina had started working at the store in 1993 and was well known to customers.

In memory of Hasina, a fund me page to build a mosque was set-up by colleagues. 

Nasreen Adam who set up the page says on the fundraiser: “Hasina was an extraordinary person who dedicated over 30 years of her life working at Tesco, where she earned the admiration and love of her colleagues, customers and everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She was, generous and full of patience with a strength and warmth that touched so many lives. Even during her brave battle with cancer, Hasina faced every moment with courage, grace and unwavering faith.

The warmth of her smile will forever remain in our hearts.”

The family said they had been ‘overwhelmed’ by people from across the community since the passing of Hasina.

The family said: “We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated towards the mosque being built in memory of our beloved mother.

She was a beautiful soul who faced her battle with cancer with incredible bravery and touched the hearts of everyone she met. Our mum worked at Tesco, Hill Street for 31 years, forming lasting relationships with colleagues and customers who became like family to her.

The mosque, being built in Indonesia, will serve as an ongoing charity in her memory, continuing her legacy of kindness and care.”

They added: “It has been truly heart warming to see donations come from people of all backgrounds, many of whom left incredibly kind and thoughtful messages alongside their contributions, showing the deep love and respect they had for our mum.

Raising more than £10,000 in just a month is a testament to her character and the positive impact she had on so many lives.’’ 

The mosque being built in Indonesia in memory of Hasina and will be led by the charity Benefit Mankind.