Popular village deli is shortlisted for a national shop award

Welton’s Deli is one of just three finalists - the other two are Shropshire’s Own in Longden near Shrewsbury and Siop Pwllglas Community Shop in Ruthin, north Wales.

Welton’s Deli owner Nicky Ransome said: “We’re just a little corner shop in the middle of nowhere, so we’re delighted to be in the top three nationally.

“I think our secret is just that we have a lot of loyal customers, and give really good customer service.”

The shop, which has been going seven years, prides itself on its long opening hours (90 a week) and its wide range of services.

As well as containing a Post Office and a cafe, the shop provides all sorts of less common services, from dry cleaning to printer cartridge replacement and from newspaper rounds to outside catering.

“We just keep chipping away, trying to pick up new customers every week” said Nicky.

Nigel Barden, the chairman of judges, said: “The artisan food and drink market is particularly competitive and it’s crucial that we recognise those who are championing the sector.

“It’s important that they can be acknowledged by the public and their peers.”

The winner of Local Shop of the Year will be announced at the Farm Shop and Deli Awards show at the NEC in Birmingham on April 18.

“We’ve no idea if we’ve won, but we’ll be there on the day” said Nicky.