Independent Worcester businesses up for rural awards

Twenty-one Worcester businesses are through to the final round of the annual awards, run by women’s lifestyle website Muddy Stilettos.

There are 27 categories to vote for meaning there is plenty of excitement among the city's entrepreneurs.

Sophie Tweedale, from Muddy Stilettos, said: “The awards were set up to celebrate and shout about the brilliant businesses that are very much the lifeblood of communities here in Worcestershire and beyond.

"After a year of lockdowns and hardships, it's a small way of saying thank you. Giving a helping hand to the heroes of our high streets is a big highlight of the year at Muddy Stilettos.”

Many of the companies nominated have had a difficult year in the midst of a pandemic but that hasn’t stopped them thriving, The Jungle Club plant shop, Worcester Road, Barbourne, opened just before the third lockdown and is up for ‘best new covid biz’.

Shop owner Daley Fard said: “To be nominated, more than anything, shows what an amazing city Worcester is. It shows that people want to get behind local businesses.

“We’re not just a plant shop, we’re building a community.”

Staff at Jungle Club want to build a "community"

Coffee shop Granary, in Spetchley Park Gardens, also opened in the pandemic and is nominated for best café.

Joint owner Zoe Collins said: “It was always a risk opening during covid last year but we went for it and we’re so happy it’s paid off. We’ve got a great team and some lovely customers who have supported us through it all!”

Broomfield’s of Holt had a tougher year than most, with co-owner Colin Broomfield dying in February 2020, but, despite this, they were able to have a fruitful period and are looking to win the award for best farm shop.  

Colin’s partner and co-owner Fiona said: “I am truly humbled by the kindness and support we have, long may it continue!

“We haven’t decided what our next project is yet as we remember Colin’s words, ‘People think you’ve stopped, you carry on.’”

For those looking for something to do, Bevere Gallery and Cob House country park are nominated for best art gallery and family attraction, respectively.

Cob House have welcomed a whole host of furry friends to the park this year

Homeware shop Cornucopia is delighted to be among the nominees for best interiors shop.

A staff member said: “We are up against some tough competition as there are some beautiful and unique stores out there. We find it an honour to be placed amongst them!

In the beauty scene, Journey and SOW Couture, in Friar Street, are both up for awards.

Manager at Journey Lloyd Baker, in Copenhagen Street, said: “This nomination is a demonstration of local support and community in Worcester.”

While Sophie Wynne-Owen of Couture said: “It feels like all the hard work put in to create the new boutique is being recognised.”

To see the full list of nominees and vote for the Gloucestershire and Worcestershire region visit the Muddy Stiletto site here.