A FAMILY-owned department store has taken on some of the biggest names in the high street after being shortlisted for a prestigious retail award.

Barkers has been named one of the best card retailers in the UK, having reached the finals in The Reta 2015 awards. The awards were launched to recognise and reward retailers both large and small who sell greeting cards.

Barkers, which has been on Northallerton High Street since 1882 has been shortlisted alongside department store giants John Lewis and Fenwicks.

Its greeting cards department was given a revamp two years ago and moved closer to the front door, and as a result sales have gone up by more than 30 per cent.

Barkers’ greeting card department is run by Sarah Lishman.

The finalists were decided as a result of an industry-wide poll of greeting cards suppliers and agents and was rubber-stamped by a panel of experts.

The winners will be revealed at a ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel in London on July 8.

Barkers managing director Charles Barker said: “We’re delighted to be shortlisted for the award, and we’re in great company as we’re up against some high-profile, prestigious and nationally-renowned stores.

“Success at the Dorchester award ceremony would be truly amazing for us against such high profile stores.

“Even if we don’t get any further in the competition, we’re really thrilled at how far we’ve got and feel we have done well.”