A customer service advisor with disabilities has been nominated for Customer Colleague of the Year by Sainsbury's. Tom Brealey, 28, expressed his delight at being selected by customers for his outstanding customer service and dedication to the store.

Mr Brealey, of Swadlincote, has worked in the Sainsbury’s local store in Midway for almost two years.

Although Tom is partially deaf in both ears and has Tourette’s syndrome, he said he feels really proud to be nominated for the second time running and has never let his disabilities hold him back.

He said: “I feel really proud to be nominated for the second time in two years, I love working for Sainsbury’s. I’m well known by members of the public and I feel really popular.

“I’m a polite and helpful customer service assistant and I enjoy helping customers with any enquires at my best.

“I’m keen to take customers to any requested product that they are looking for and offer directions. I also like working at the checkout serving customers.”

The Customer Colleague of the Year award is an award recognising staff members who provide outstanding customer service and make a difference to the community.

Thousands of customers across the country vote for the award, which was given out at the annual colleague conference organised by Sainsbury’s.

“I would like to thank the customers who voted to nominate me,” Mr Brealey said.

“I am thrilled to receive a lovely certificate from my store manageress - thank you so much Tracy.”

The excited Sainsbury's employee posted a photo of himself and his nomination certificate to Facebook, which received more than 1,3000 likes and reactions.

Social media users quickly took to the post to show their support.

Mary Chamberlain said: "Fantastic, so well deserved! You always make me smile whenever I come into the store! Enjoy."

"Awesome, mate. Well deserved. You are always the happiest and friendliest person ever. Keep it up mate and carry on making the folk of Swadlincote smile."

Tom eagerly awaits more news on his nomination.