Celebrations are under way after a Colchester store scooped a sought-after fashion award.

Coming home! - Julie Hayward of Williams and Griffin holds the best store award for staff to see. Picture: TERRY WEEDEN (46350-1)

Williams and Griffin was crowned best independent department store - the main title - in the Drapers fashion magazine awards.

The store was also shortlisted for best lingerie retailer and best new department at the fashion retailing awards.

The ceremony was held at the Grosvenor Hotel, London, and was hosted by comedian Rob Brydon.

About 1,200 people attended the ceremony where 19 statues were presented to the finest and most innovative fashion retailers in the UK and Irish Republic.

The best independent department store award is the most sought after award for all independent fashion retailers in the UK.

Jonathan Christie, managing director of Williams and Griffin, said: "It's been a long wait. We entered the awards months ago and have gone through a rigorous judging process.

"We are so pleased to have won best independent department store as it recognises us for our achievements throughout the whole store. It really is an honour to be among the winners."

More in today's Evening Gazette

Published Friday, November 25, 2005

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette