MALVERN-based footwear seller Robin Elt Shoes has been named ladies’ independent retailer of the year in an industry awards ceremony.

The company, which has shops in Worcester, Hereford and further afield, was given the award during a ceremony at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham this week.

The 140 year-old family business were also highly commended in the categories of men’s independent retailer of the year and multiple footwear retailer of the year. This is the second year running that Robin Elt Shoes has been recognised for awards.

Director Robin Elt said: “Following our success as winner of outdoor retailer of 2016, I am ecstatic that we have been awarded ladies independent retailer of the year.

"We drive our business through our heritage but we also constantly strive to be innovative in both our brand selection and our technical benefits. Without our wonderful staff none of this would have been possible.”

Cheryl Taylor, editor of Footwear Today magazine which sponsors the event, said, “To win a coveted Footwear Industry Award is a real quality mark for a footwear retailer, communicating to customers that they offer unrivalled products and service. Congratulations to Robin Elt Shoes for their fantastic achievement.”

The award was presented by Peter Youell of Skechers, another award sponsor, to Mr Elt’s daughter, Jenny.