Alicia Kearns MP has launched her annual competition to find Rutland and Melton’s Favourite Independent Shop for 2023-4.
Nominations are now open, and Alicia is asking for residents to nominate their favourite shops so they can be shortlisted for the competition and public vote.
Last year’s competition saw 19,169 votes cast in total, and Gates Garden Centre was voted as the overall winner.
There are 15 categories for nominations in this year’s competition:
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Beauty, pampering and wellness
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Butcher
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Café
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Children and babies
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Clothing and accessories
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Craft and hobby
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Farm and produce
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Food and drink
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Garden centre
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Gifts and stationery
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Homeware
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Music and Records
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Pharmacy
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Village Shop
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Other
Nominations will close on Monday 11th December 2023, before a shortlist of shops is created and voting opens until Friday 26th January 2024. Winners of the competition will be announced in February.
Alicia Kearns MP, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton, said:
“We are very fortunate to have a wonderful selection of independent shops in our communities. These awards are a great opportunity to celebrate these businesses, and their important contribution to our local economy.
“This competition seeks not just to celebrate, but to help boost the profile of our independent businesses as we head into the busy Christmas shopping season.
“Last year’s competition was a resounding success, receiving thousands of votes, so I’m really looking forward to getting nominations underway again!”
