A MARKET town's independent bicycle shop has been nominated for a prestigious national award.

Inspiral Cycles, in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, has been nominated for the 2019 High Street Hero award for best high street business at The Small Awards.

Opened in March 2015, the shop team sell new bikes, parts and accessories and offer a workshop for repairs and servicing.

The business is headed up by husband and wife team Gary and Fiona Ewing.

The accolade Start up of the Year was also bestowed on the Inspiral Cycles team from the Federation of Small Businesses in 2017.

High Street Hero is a prestigious national award that recognises small businesses up and down the country for their growth, creativity and commitment to their local communities.

Mrs Ewing said: “We are delighted this nomination recognises Inspiral Cycles is more than just a bike shop – we are part of the regeneration of Bishop Auckland town centre with other smaller, independent retailers.

"Gary, Rob, Francis and George provide a high-quality, professional and personal service which our customers appreciate.

"Online-only retailers or bigger supermarket-style stores cannot offer such excellent service.

"The judges were also impressed with the links Inspiral Cycles has with the community from supporting Bishop Auckland Town Team to working with local charities such as Hamsterley Trailblazers and events such as The Hamsterley Beast mountain bike challenge, raising money for Great North Air Ambulance Service."

Winners of The Small Awards will be crowned at an event in London in May 2019.

Launched in 2017 and sponsored by Indeed and TSB, it focuses on recognising businesses often overlooked by other awards.

There are 11 categories, all highlighting the vibrancy of the UK’s small business sector which turns over £1.9 trillion each year.

Michelle Ovens, founder of The Small Awards said: “The Small Awards celebrates the huge contribution that the UK’s 5.6million small businesses make to the economy and broader society across the country.

"There are huge numbers of small businesses doing great things, making great products and excelling in customer service, and they all deserve recognition.

"I am proud that there is now a spotlight on vibrant, dynamic and exciting UK businesses such as Inspiral Cycles.”

For more information email shop@inspiralcycles.co.uk or alternatively visit inspiralcycles.co.uk or search for Inspiral Cycles on Facebook.