Have-a-go hero in the running for award

Rasika Yakandawala, forecourt assistant at Clifton Filling Station is in the running for the Best Forecourt Assistant accolade in the Superstation Awards 2013.

The nomination follows Rasika’s brave attempt to thwart two men who she confronted when she saw them trying to steal cash and alcohol from the Gulf station.

Rasika suffered two cracked ribs when she tackled one of the men and they escaped but they were later identified on CCTV and were arrested.

She has now worked at the station for 18 months and in that time has quickly built up a good rapport with all of the regular customers.

Rasika has also helped to introduce some new initiatives including offering businesses and traders in the area the free use of an advertising board.

Since their introduction the station is now selling more fuel than ever before.

Rasika said: “I am delighted to be short-listed for this award.

“The site has really changed since I’ve worked there – some of those changes I’d like to think that I’ve influenced for the customers’ benefit.

“I enjoy seeing familiar faces every day and being able to help where I can. “

She added: “The station plays an important part in the community so we’re always looking for ways to improve and are open to suggestions from our customers.”

Ramsay MacDonald, retail director at Certas Energy, which supplies the station said: “To be nominated for an award is a mark of quality and professionalism.

“There is a tough selection process, so the three individuals selected for this category really stood out from the competition.

“This is just the second year the awards have been running and we’re proud to see the quality of personnel employed at our site.”

Award winners will be announced at the SuperStation Gala Dinner at The Belfry Hotel in Sutton Coldfield on Thursday, October 24.

The awards are assessed and judged by a panel of industry specialists.

They encourage the highest industry standards, including elements such as forecourt appearance, diversity of product offering, customer service, innovation in business strategy and generally setting a benchmark standard for the industry.