A gift shop in Budleigh Salterton has been recognised as the best independent gift shop in the South West.

Karen Ritchie owner of the Rowan Tree, Budleigh, won the Greats award for the best Independent Gift shop in the West and South West.

The awards ceremony was held on Thursday, May 11 at The Royal Lancaster hotel in London. Karen travelled from Budleigh Salterton to London to pick up her award.

Karen Ritchie said: "We are so proud to have won best Independent gift retailer in the West and South West. Another great reason to visit our beautiful town of Budleigh Salterton.

"A big thank you to my brilliant team Helen, Kirsty, Lynn and Lucy and all our wonderful customers and suppliers."

A spokesman for the Great awards said: "These amazing retailers have shown the power of hard work, creativity, and adaptability in the face of challenging times. They have outshined their competition and brought joy and unique shopping experiences to their communities. The dedication and love they put into their businesses are truly inspiring and praiseworthy.

The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2023 - now in its 21st year of running, the Great awards set out to recognise and reward outstanding gift shops and gift departments across the UK. 

The awards recongise the best gift retailers in the country. Rowan Tree were very nominated with five others in the South West category as best independent retailer in the region.

The Rowan Tree were nominated as Best Independent Gift Shop last year, and although they didn't win, they said 'they were very proud to be nominated.' This year they won.

Find out more about the awards HERE