Retailers encouraged to enter high street competition

Business owners and staff across Lancashire are being encouraged to enter the Great British High Street competition 2016.

Now in its third year, the competition celebrates the great work which is being done to revive, adapt and diversify the nation’s high streets and is an opportunity for councils, businesses, community groups and volunteers to learn from the very best.

Last year’s competition saw a record-breaking 230 entries and attracted over 200,000 public votes, with Bishy Road in York, a former finalist, crowned Britain’s best.

With new categories, new prizes, including the chance to win up to £10,000 each, more entries are expected this year than ever before.

The four categories for individuals are:

• Best Store Manager or Employee from a National Retailer / Organisation
• Best Store Manager or Employee from an Independent / Small Business
• Best Market Manager, Operator, Farmer or Trader
• Best under 25-year-old, manager or employee from a high street business

The nine competition categories for places are:

• Best City Centre High Street
• Best Town Centre High Street
• Best Market Town High Street (small)
• Best Market Town High Street (large)
• Best Coastal Community High Street
• Best Village High Street
• Best Local Centre - precinct or parade of shops
• Best London High Street
• Rising Star - to recognise towns who are turning fortunes around

Nominations are now open across England, Wales and Scotland. The top three shortlisted in each category will be announced in October.

They will then go through to a public online vote and be visited by the Future High Streets Forum judging panel made up of industry leaders from across retail, property and business.

Details of how to enter the competition can be found at: www.thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk

The deadline for entries is Friday, September 9.