THE owners of a gift shop in the centre of Malvern are delighted that it has been named one of the best in the country in an industry award scheme

Rhubarb, at the top of Church Street, won the best newcomer prize for the region in the Greats Awards, run by Progressive Gifts and Home magazine to reward the UK's very best gift retailers.

The shop was opened just under two years ago by Sara and Nigel Morris, who also run the Post Office and Card Emporium just across the road.

Mrs Morris said: "We're delighted to have won because we were up against some really great shops. You're judged on several factors, including customer service and the range of products you carry, so it's a real accolade to have been named best in the region."

"These awards for gift retailers have risen immeasurably in status over the years and are now universally acknowledged as being true accolades of excellence," said Sue Marks, editor of Progressive Gifts and Home. "Being selected as a finalist was a fantastic achievement. There was a huge entry this year, with some outstanding, first-class entries."