RETAILERS in a North-East town have been recognised in an awards ceremony.

Independent and national retailers in Stockton were celebrated at the Castlegate Retailer Awards, held at Middlesbrough Football Club’s Riverside Stadium.

More than 100 guests attended the second annual awards, which saw ten prizes given out during an evening of music and entertainment.

Greggs, the UK’s largest bakery chain, was awarded overall retailer of the year and best national retailer, and their employee Andrew Murray received the outstanding member of staff award.

“It is wonderful to have Greggs recognised by both shoppers and our industry peers, and we are very thankful to all who voted – we are proudly displaying our trophies in store and showing them off to all our customers.”

Heather Hornsby from Kitsons, who won best independent, said: “Everyone is extremely happy with the award and we loved the event, it was a brilliant way to bring all the shops together to celebrate everything that is great about Castlegate."