Leek bidding for best High Street title

Leek's bid to be named Britain's best high street has now been submitted.

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is leading the bid for the Great British High Street Awards 2018 - a government initiative to recognise and celebrate the contribution high streets make to the life and vibrancy of our towns and cities.

And it's hoping Leek's blend of independent shops, popular high street names and bustling traditional and specialist markets - allied with great places to eat and drink, a guaranteed friendly welcome and excellent customer service - will see it singled out for recognition.

Council Leader, Councillor Sybil Ralphs, said: "Our bid is now in and, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our businesses and the enthusiasm and commitment of our local community, we've got a great story to share.

"We all know what makes Leek so special so fingers crossed that the judges agree! I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported the bid so far and who shares our desire to celebrate our achievements and see the town continue to thrive.

"I'd also like to thank Leek TV for making the fantastic video showcasing all the great things that go on in the town which we've submitted with our bid."

The Awards cover England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and will see 38 high streets shortlisted - 13 of those will be located in England.

The shortlist will be announced by 10 September and Britain's best high street will be unveiled in November with the winner receiving a £10,000 cash prize for a local community project.

Keep up with the latest news on social media using #MyHighStreet and the campaign's social media channels Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.