The UK’s first Bmorelocal store clinched the top award at Blakemore Wholesale’s retailer of the year event at Alton Towers Resort last week.

BK Stores in Immingham, Grimsby was named retailer of the year 2016 at the awards ceremony, now in its seventh year.

The awards also recognised 12 regional winners and five category awards including Best Work in the Community, Best Promotional Execution, Best Own Brand Compliance, Best Core Range, Best Fresh Foods Retailer and Best New Store.

Winning store owner Pardeep Sakaria said: “It is an honour to be recognised as Blakemore Wholesale Retailer of the Year 2016. The award means so much to me and my brother Randeep, without the backing and support from the Blakemore Wholesale team none of this would be possible.

“Just under 12 months ago Nick Rose approached me to discuss the Bmorelocal concept. I loved the professional look and feel of the fascia and since then we haven’t looked back. The store looks amazing and we have had lots of attention from other retailers.”

Blakemore Wholesale stores group director Nick Rose said: “I have been overwhelmed by the exceptional level of standards across our Retail Club estate this year, so this is a significant achievement for all of our winners.

“The awards demonstrate how suppliers, wholesalers and retailers can work together to showcase the best of what independent local stores have to offer.”

In addition to the awards ceremony, guests enjoyed a three course dinner and entertainment from comedian, actor and television presenter Alexander Armstrong. A charity raffle raised £3,933 with all proceeds being donated to local charities via the Blakemore Foundation.