A mum has heaped praise on Asda after staff tracked down a discontinued toy for her six-year-old daughter following an emotional plea on Facebook .
When little Lexi-Mae's beloved great-grandad Derek went into hospital a few years ago, she gave him a teddy to keep him company while he was there.
After that, anytime Derek went into hospital, it became tradition for Super Bunny to go with him.
When Derek sadly passed away recently aged 84, Lexi-Mae wanted Super Bunny to go with him to heaven, but wanted to get another one so they would be able to talk to each other and he wouldn't be alone.
The toy had been bought from Asda in Harlow several years ago and mum Danyella Senior found the store had since stopped making the teddy.
Lexi-Mae's mum took to Facebook, posting a picture of Super Bunny with the message: "A complete long shot but I am hoping that somebody can help me.
"Has anyone got this teddy that they would be willing to sell?
"My daughter bought my grandad this quite a few years ago from Asda when he was in hospital.
"Unfortunately it's come to the time when we have got to say goodbye. My daughter would like her grandad to take this one to heaven with him but she would like one for herself so they have matching.
"I will be forever grateful and I hope someone can help me in this time of need."
The post was spotted by the team at Asda Home Office who were touched by Lexi-Mae's story and began the hunt to find a remaining bunny.
After tracking one down at the manufacturer, Super Bunny was sent over so the Harlow store's community champion Rachel Forth and store manager Steve Chamberlain could give the teddy to Lexi-Mae.
Danyella said: "I really can’t thank Asda enough for doing all this. It's absolutely fantastic.
"Lexi-Mae was so close to her great-grandad Derek Woolnough. When she received it she smiled and said ‘It’s Super Bunny, just like grandad's'.
"She hasn’t put it down yet. She’s even taken it to school.
"My grandad was my idol. I was so close to him and so was Lexi-Mae. We saw him at least two or three times a week. She loved him.
"I put a plea out of Facebook for a replacement and couldn't believe it when Asda got in touch.
"I was speechless, totally gobsmacked when I got the message that they had found us one. It's made a really difficult time a little easier."
Harlow store's manager Steve said: "Lexi-Mae looked really happy to have her little toy and her mum was extremely grateful for all the support we had given her.
"It was the right thing to do. We were just happy to have helped."
