Small shop receives big award

STAFF at a local convenience store are celebrating after their business was crowned the best small shop in East Antrim.

The Spar, Islandmagee received the prestigious accolade from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Small Shops. East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson presented the certificate to owners Stephen and Linda Caldwell at the shop on Friday.

Finance Minister Mr Wilson said: “I am delighted to have been able to present the certificate to Stephen and Linda, who do an excellent job running a much-used and valuable resource for the people of Islandmagee. It is a family run business and for 28 years they have done at great job providing for the needs of local people, while at the same time also providing much needed employment for over 20 people.

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“The range of services which they provide is extensive. There is a post office, hot food counter, pay point facilities and all the other daily essentials that people require. I believe it is this combined with the friendly atmosphere and their community involvement which saw them win the East Antrim award.

“I want to congratulate everyone at the Spar for all their hard work which has contributed to it being recognised in this way. I look forward to them entering the competition next year and getting into the top 10 in the UK, and I would encourage other shop owners in the constituency to enter as well,” Mr Wilson concluded.