THE owners of a Worcester cookware shop have been crowned independent Retailers of the Year for 2008.

Caroline Kirkpatrick and her partner and co-director Andrew Gregory said they were “on top of the world”

after winning the award.

The couple have owned Cookmate in Broad Street since 2006.

The award was made by the Cookshop and Houseware Association at a presentation ceremony at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

Le Creuset sponsored the award and its managing director, Nick Ryder, made the presentation.

Miss Kirkpatrick said: “We’re really thrilled to be recognised as the leading independent retailer in this sector.

“The award came as a complete – and delightful – surprise, and we really do feel on top of the world.

Clearly others in the industry recognise what we have achieved and, in these difficult times for business, it is encouraging to receive this seal of approval.”

The couple, who, since taking over, have refurbished the shop and extended the range of kitchenware and household items paid tribute to their staff.

Mr Gregory said: “We’re immensely lucky in the excellent staff we have.

They are very much part of our success and it was good that our manager, Becky Harte, was able to come to the presentation event with us.”

Since taking over the business the partners have been able to report a continued growth in trade and now customers at the shop will be able to see the trophy which confirms the success and growth of Cookmate Worcester.