Mayor of Winchester, John Steel, was in Alresford on Monday evening to present the Alresford Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year awards.

Now in its sixth year, the competition is designed to recognise and improve standards attracted 18 nominations.

Commenting on the number of entries Chamber chairman Andrew Merry said: "They were nominated either because they have performed above or beyond the call of duty over the past 12 months, because they have the nicest staff, the best products or they simply provide a service second to none."

Run away winner was County News of West Street with 216 votes. Every customer commented on the cheerful, friendly and helpful staff. Runners up were last year's winners, Soles Butchers, with Lisa Martin Chemist being highly commended.

"The one thing that stands out with all our finalists is the combination of good quality products and service with a smile," declared Andrew Merry.

The mayor presented County News with their certificate, £50 and a bottle of champagne.

County News is owned by Mr and Mrs Trevor Mann and managed by Peter Moore, Jill Trant and Sandra Brown.