A JEWELLERY store involved in two recent armed robberies has been singled out for special recognition.

Middlesbrough mayor Ray Mallon presented the owners and staff of Market Cross Jewellers with a Borough Award at a ceremony in the Town Hall.

The award aims to celebrate the contribution of Market Cross to Middlesbrough town centre, and to the economy of the wider region.

Founded by partners Roy Welsh and Fiona Turner, the first store opened in 1980 in Bakehouse Square in Guisborough, taking its name from the town’s

nearby market cross and retaining the brand ever since.

Mr Welsh continues to manage the overall business, supported by company manager Dawn Welsh and area manager Stephen McHale.

The business now includes 18 shops employing 103 staff, but has been hit by two recent robberies, one at its Yarm store in November, and a second in January at the Linthorpe Road store in Middlesbrough.

Dawn Welsh said: “There is a great team mentality and a feeling of family which I think the customers really appreciate, and that spirit was also reflected in the staff’s fantastic response to the recent robberies.

“We are extremely proud of all the staff throughout the company and we have very little staff turnover."

Mr Mallon said: “Roy, Fiona and Dawn have worked hard to attract prestige brands to their business, and their hard work and dedication have played an

important role in helping Middlesbrough to survive and grow as a vibrant and diverse shopping destination."