Good work gong

Peter Jones' efforts to build links with local schools and businesses have been recognised with a 'Partnership in Practice' award from the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea at its first Backing Business Awards.

The accolade was presented at a ceremony in central London last week. 'It's remarkable that despite the huge economic challenges many businesses face, many generously give their time, money and expertise to support local projects,' says RBKC Councillor Rock Feilding-Mellen.

Peter Jones' Community Liaison Co-ordinator Amaya Gallego says a major part of Peter Jones's achievement was the help given by MD Tony Wheeler and OMS Fashion Susan Baxter, highlighted by the judges.

Recruitment Co-ordinator Marje Williams was also congratulated for her role in co-ordinating work experience with local schools. 'It's how the students were treated by Partners in their departments that made all the difference,' she says.

John Lewis Stratford City : Olympic dream comes true

Catering Partner Nicole Gipps will help to make history when she dances at the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games in August.

Nicole Gipps was picked from 20,000 other dancers to perform at the ceremony, which is being arranged by Oscar-winning English director Danny Boyle.

Espresso Bar assistant Nicole has been dancing for twelve years, and has mastered everything from ballet to street dancing.

Last year she beat damage to her ligaments to perform at Wembley with Tinchy Stryder in front of 84,000 people, before the Champions League final clash between Manchester United and Barcelona.

But she said performing to an estimated 4 billion people in August will be her 'proudest moment' as a dancer. 'I'm always excited to get out on the stage,' she said.

'Obviously, you feel nerves, but this really is a once in a lifetime chance for me; it's the biggest thing I've ever done. I'm so excited to have this opportunity, and I can't wait to get started with rehearsals.'

Waitrose Newton Mearns : Store of the week

Waitrose Newton Mearns near Glasgow has secured the Grocer magazine's Store of the Week title nine months after it opened, with the magazine praising its 'immaculate' appearance and 'helpful staff'.

Branch Manager James Breckenridge says his team are 'ecstatic'. 'It has come as the real icing on the cake after an amazing first Christmas here,' he says. 'It's a tremendous start to 2012 and has really set us up for the weeks to come.'

Every week JLP e-zine brings you stories from around our shops. This week's stories are by Katy Perceval, John Martin and Carol Miller.