A FAMILY-run independent bookshop is on the shortlist of retailers in the running to be named Britain’s Best Small Shop of 2018.

Drake The Bookshop owner Richard Drake considers the shop to be a community hub, running five book groups, from children’s ones to a free one for adults. It also runs a weekly storytime for children in holiday time.

He said: “We have held a range of author events in the shop, at local schools as well as collaborating with other businesses, including a children’s event at a pub which was launching a new children’s menu.

"We also held two schools events and provided free signed books to over 70 children in two deprived areas of Stockton."

The Best Small Shops competition, managed by the Independent Retailers Confederation, celebrates the commitment and creativity of independent retailers on the UK’s High Streets and the central role they play in their local communities.

The winner will be announced at the Houses of Parliament next month.