A WORCESTERSHIRE shop managed to overcome tough competition to be named best small convenience store at national awards held in London.

Chaz Chahal, who has owned and run the Forge Shop, SimplyFresh in Inkberrow for two-and-a-half years, was crowned the winner of the category at the Convenience Retail Awards.

The awards are run by leading trade magazines Convenience Store and The Grocer, and were held in March.

Mr Chahal and his team were commended for their commitment to the local community, including involving them heavily with refurbishment plans, investment plans, investment in technology and focus on fresh, healthy and artisan foods including locally sourced produce.

The village store underwent a major transformation in April 2016 taking the shop from a 300 sq ft newsagent, to an impressive 900 sq ft SimplyFresh farm and deli style store.

Chaz Chahal, owner of SimplyFresh, said: “We are delighted to have won best small convenience store.

"This award is a testament to the commitment and hard work of the whole team and our loyal customers whose feedback and input has helped us make the store the success it is today.

"We are passionate about providing all our customers with exceptional service and being part of a close and supportive local community.”

SimplyFresh is an upmarket grocery store concept focusing on local and best of British products, anchored by an organic healthy range of food.