NORTHWICH Art Shop has beaten off stiff competition to win a prestigious regional prize.

The store, in Witton Street, has been crowned Best Art and Craft Supplier 2017 in the North West Enterprise Awards, after seeing off the challenge of many larger businesses.

Owner Phil Bower was overwhelmed when he found out his customers had nominated the shop for the prize.

"It’s great to know that our customers think so highly of us and I would love to know who nominated us so I can say thank you," he said.

"When we were notified it made us feel very proud – we have worked hard since taking the business over three years ago to create a business that meets the needs of our creative community, and hopefully inspire people to participate in the arts.

"I know of many great art and craft retailers in the region so for us to win is almost beyond our wildest dreams."

Mark Henshaw, Northwich BID officer, added: "I know that people come from miles around to buy supplies and receive advice from the Northwich Art Shop and it’s very highly regarded by the art community not only in Cheshire but right across the north west too.

"We have so many amazing independent businesses here in Northwich and it’s always great when they receive recognition and awards from national organisations because they deserve it."