A CROSSGATES store is in the running for a national award after reaching the final of a UK-wide retail competition.

The Corner Shop on Main Street, which is run by Robert Kirkwood, is one of 34 retail outlets that are in the running to be named best overall shop by the Independent Achievers Academy (IAA) next month.

In August, we reported that the Premier Express convenience store had made the IAA Top 100 list to be recognised as one of the top independent stores in the country following an assessment based on them achieving excellence in serving customers across 12 core principles of retailing.

Robert's store is one of four finalists in the 'effective ranging' category and will face competition from rivals in London, Weymouth and Porthmadog for the title.

It is one of 12 categories in which awards will be handed out at the IAA gala dinner on November 29 in London, with each finalists also in with a chance of being named best overall shop.

A delighted Robert said: "My staff are as keen to find out how we've done in the final as I am!

"It's been a rollercoaster two years but the community has been fantastic in their support to The Corner Shop as I have been to the locals too.

"I am in the process of taking ownership of another store in Mossgreen and hope to replicate all and more in my second store."