Colchester independent business could win national award

Bill and Bert’s, which is in St Isaac’s Walk, opened in 2019 and replaced what was formerly Karen Millen, before it then expanded into another neighbouring store, Trespass, in April earlier this year.

Now the independently run store, which is owned by Bill Nettelfield and Sarah Charlton, could be named the UK’s favourite local business as part of a nationwide competition which is being run by Town and City Gift Cards.

The gift cards are part of a drive to encourage shoppers in the UK’s towns and cities to choose local shos and independent businesses as opposed to national retail chains – and hundreds of businesses are now contesting for as many votes as possible to win the coveted title.

Owner Bill Nettelfield said the name of the store is a tribute to his pet dog, a Schnauzer called Bertie, whose picture even features on the shop’s carrier bags.

The business itself is pet friendly, with customers welcome to bring in their dogs; shoppers are also offered free mulled wine on Wednesday evenings in the run-up to Christmas.

Discussing the importance of shopping local, Mr Nettelfield had praise for the Colchester gift card, which can be spent at dozens of businesses throughout the city, including The Craft Spot, Red Lion Books, and H Gunton.

He said: “The Colchester Gift Card is needed – if we don’t support our local shops, we’ll lose them, and it’s with local businesses that you will get better service and price.

“Customers sometimes say ‘you’re cheaper than online’ but I say, we go out of our way to source interesting, quality gift items at great value for money.

“The Colchester Gift Card is easy to accept and people can spend it with lots of businesses in Colchester.”

People can vote for Bill and Bert’s via www.lovelocalwin.co.uk, with voting set to close on Wednesday, December 21.

A nominee of the eventual winner of the UK’s favourite business award will receive £500 of gift cards.