A LEADING department store is celebrating after being named as the country’s top hosiery retailer.

Barkers in Northallerton triumphed at the Stars Underlines Best Shop Awards, held at the Cumberland Hotel in London.

The family-owned department was named Legwear Retailer of the Year at the presentation night, which was hosted by TV and radio presenter Vanessa Feltz.

Barkers accessories department buyer Kate McCain collected the award, which was presented by Pretty Polly sales director Michael Scott.

"We were nominated for the award by suppliers, and judges looked at the whole running of the department,” said Kate.

"Two years ago, we moved the department upstairs to the first floor, which was a huge risk because some companies have ruined their hosiery section by moving it off the its traditional place on the ground floor.

"But we have completely turned the department around and we are flying again, so the judges were impressed that we are doing so well.

"Our use of signs, displays and service made us the outright winner. The judges said we shone in what was a strong category, so we are extremely delighted."

Managing director Charles Barker added: "It was a huge honour to be nominated for this top industry award, and even more special that the judges said we were the clear winner.”