Store manager, Colin Mason, has no plans to let the dust settle in his new role at Sandbach's Lawton Way Co-op.

For the adventure-loving retail boss is hitting the ground running and scaling new heights, having recently taken over at the helm.

The 42-year-old has taken over the reins at Lawton Way from Nick James, who has retired after nearly 30 years with the Co-op.

Colin is an avid walker and hiker and has done many charity challenges in his time. Next year he takes on another – the Sahara/Toubkal Co-op Trek.

(Photo: Deborah Bowyer/Sandbach Nub News)

"I did the Everest Base camp one and now I'm doing the Sahara trek in February to raise money for Barnardo's. I enjoy doing things like this," said Colin.

Barnardo's, the UK's largest children's charity, is the Co-op's new national charity partner and is a charity close to Colin's heart.

"As a father myself it will be empowering to think I am completing this challenge to help support children and families across the country to give them a better life," he said. Co-op members can help support Co-op's national and local causes just by doing their shopping as well as getting discounts and offers.

Colin, who has two children of his own and a degree in geography from Liverpool John Moores University, is no stranger to the outdoor pursuits.

He spent three years working in the Lake District in Ambleside for another retailer and was able to pursue his love of the great outdoors.

"It was a lovely part of the world to live in and I did lots of walking and outdoor stuff," he said.

"Cheshire is also a great place and Sandbach is a lovely place. The local community has made me so welcome."

Colin moved back to Cheshire from the Lakes because his family missed the county and has found plenty of local walks to keep him happy.

(Photo: Deborah Bowyer/Sandbach Nub News)

Previously manager of the Co-op's Tarvin store, he says the local community in Sandbach have given him a warm welcome.

"I've had some lovely comments and I have a great team behind me. I love working with my colleagues and helping to bring them on in their careers," he said.

Colin managed the Co-op's Tarvin store for four years and says he was looking for a new challenge.

"When I heard Nick was retiring, I applied for the job," he said. "It's a great place to work with a good team."

He plans to launch a book sale for Barnardo's and other fundraising events for the charity.

In the meantime, Colin is busy preparing for his Sahara trek, walking and running whenever he can.

When not at work, he can be found stepping it out on the local canal and footpaths near his Winsford home.

"It's a great a way to clear your mind and get fit," says Colin.

Donations for Colin's Sahara challenge can be made through this JustGiving link here

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