A BRADFORD cycle shop hopes to be gearing up for success after being nominated for a national award.

Pennine Cycles, based in Thornton Road, is in the running to be named Britain’s Best Small Shop of 2020.

The shop, which opened in 1946, sells all bikes including children's, hybrids and BMXs as well as cycling accessories and apparel, has been named on the shortlist of retailers in the running for the prestigious prize.

Sandra Corcoran, director, who runs the business with husband Paul, said: “We are passionate about cycling.

“We want to ensure people have a bike which fits them and is safe, not just sell them what we have in stock.

“Many of our customers have become friends due to the cycling connection made in our shop. We have built an engaged community both on and offline of cycling fans.”

The Best Small Shops competition is managed by the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC), whose member trade associations represent approximately 100,000 independent retailers throughout the UK between them.

The competition celebrates the commitment and creativity of independent retailers on the UK’s High Streets and the central role they play in their local communities. It is sponsored by Maybe, an engagement platform that helps make social media work for independent retailers. The winner will be announced next month.

In addition to the main award, Pennine Cycles has also been shortlisted for a special award to be given to the independent retailer that has demonstrated specific innovation to combat the impact of COVID-19.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

As an essential business, the shop stayed open to serve customers. It offered servicing and repairs, giving priority to key workers alongside offering free essential items.

Staff worked long hours to get customers back riding and, anticipating there would be a large demand for cycling early on, stocked up on supplies. It accelerated the launch of its online shop to offer click and collect, free postage and local deliveries.

Having an online shop and using social media enabled it to reach new customers, and updates were also shared via email. The shop is also registered for the Fix Your Bike Scheme.

The annual competition highlights the best of Britain's independent retail sector, celebrating the commitment and creativity of independent retailers and the central role they play in their local communities.