FAMILY has been the key to success for a Cotswolds gift shop.

Cotswold Snug in Moreton has been named Gloucestershire and Worcestershire’s best lifestyle store in the Muddy Stiletto Awards 2023.

Owner Melissa Blundell said she couldn’t have done it without the support her family.

She said: “Winning this award has been a big pat on the back for us and recognition for all the hard work that’s been put in since opening in July 2021, not just by me though my family have been behind me all the way since day one!

“My mum helps out in the shop and is a superstar! She’s a vital part of the business and a real asset with her years of customer service experience and natural way with people she is simply amazing!

“My dad has been instrumental in all things DIY and continues to make, adjust and fix things every time I decide to move things around in the shop! He never shy’s away from anything and constantly comes up with solutions and ideas to make things run better or smoother.

“My wonderful husband and our two gorgeous daughters have also been incredibly supportive and extremely patient with me and I couldn’t have done this without them!”

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The Muddy Stiletto Awards seek to shine a light on the best lifestyle businesses in rural areas.

Cotswold Snug saw off stiff competition from other shops in the region, including the Curated Store in Stow.

Cheltenham’s Betsy Benn and Emporium Gifts were also in the running, alongside the Malthouse Collective in Stroud.

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It isn’t just her family that Mrs Blundell has to thank for winning, the Moreton community has also played its part.

She said: “As an independent small business we don’t have a budget for advertising, so we rely on local support and on people spreading the word and recommending us to friends and family.

“We pride ourselves on providing the best customer service we can and we go the extra mile to make sure our customers are looked after to the best of our abilities.

“Winning this award though has meant the world to me, it’s like receiving a handshake from all of our customers at once saying ‘well done, you’re doing a good job’ and that’s why it means so much to us.

“I am so very grateful to all the amazing people, customers and friends for taking the time to support us and for voting for The Cotswold Snug, you are all simply awesome!

“Thank you all and thank you to Muddy Stilettos for recognising and promoting independent businesses!”