I am delighted that after the success of my first Independent Shop Awards, the people of the Stratford on Avon constituency have again taken part in huge numbers to nominate their favourite places to eat, drink, stay or shop.

I’d like to thank the nearly 2000 people who took part, but mostly I want to celebrate the excellence and quality of the independent businesses we have throughout this area. These independent businesses are the lifeblood of our towns and villages and it has been a fantastic opportunity to say thank you, whether they’re in Stratford or Shipston, Welford or Alcester, Long Compton or Henley.

The finalists have all been invited to an awards ceremony on the 29th April at the RSC’s Other Place, where the winners and runners up will be announced.

I can speak on behalf of all of the judges and say it was a tough job narrowing it down to these finalists, and we all wish them the best of luck on the 29th April

Touch FM will be providing the prize of free radio advertising to the winners in each category.

The finalists in each category are:

Best Independent Shop:
Gemini, Wood Street, Stratford upon Avon
The Parlour Pet Boutique, Yew Tree Shopping Village, Wootton Wawen
Boho Bride, Stratford Garden Centre, Clifford Chambers
Jacksons Jewellery, Priory Road, Alcester
Poppy Galore, Stratford Garden Centre, Clifford Chambers
A Fine Tattoo Establishment, Shrieves Walk, Stratford upon Avon.

Best Café:
Hooray’s Gelato Kitchen, High Street, Stratford upon Avon
Huffkins, Old Red Lion Court, Stratford upon Avon
Henley Ice Cream, High Street, Henley
The Fourteas, Sheep Street, Stratford upon Avon

Best Hotel or B&B:
Avonlea Guesthouse, Shipston Road, Stratford upon Avon
The Bell, Shipston Road, Alderminster
The Red Lion Inn, Main Street, Long Compton
The Stratford Limes Hotel, Main Street, Tiddington

Best Pub:
The Bell, Shipston Road, Alderminster
The Red Lion Inn, Main Street, Long Compton
The Shakespeare Inn, Chapel Street, Welford on Avon
The Stratford Alehouse, Greenhill Street, Stratford upon Avon

Best Restaurant:
Aladdin’s Indian Dining, Main Street, Tiddington
33 The Scullery, Greenhill Street, Stratford upon Avon
Naya, High Street, Henley in Arden
The Bell, Alderminster, Stratford upon Avon

Best Village Shop:
Ilmington Community Shop, Grump Street, Ilmington
Spar, Main Street, Tiddington
Snitterfield Village Stores, Smiths Lane, Snitterfield
The Wardrobe, Church Street, Welford on Avon