A family business where even the owners' four-year-old granddaughter does her bit has been shortlisted for two awards.

Sholden Village Store in The Street owned by Martin and Sylvia Sims has made it through to the final stage of the Ashford Business Awards.

Based on their application and a mystery shopper experience, they are being considered for both the best family business award and the start-up award.

They will attend the bash at Ashford International Hotel tonight to discover their fate against others businesses from Hythe, Romney Marsh, Folkestone, Deal and Dover.

Winning would be the icing on top of the cake for the couple who moved house to start the business in November 2016.

Mrs Sims has since given up her full-time job at Canterbury's Marlowe Theatre to dedicate more hours to the shop.

She said: "We were very surprised but excited to be shortlisted.

"Writing the application was a great chance to reflect. It made us stop and think about all that we've achieved in the short time we've been open.

"Not only is the store a place for people to buy essential produce, we like to think we've given them a place to come and mingle."

Mr Sims added: "Since the closure of the village pub we've become the hub of the community and we've been well supported by people.

"Villagers meet in the shop and start chatting. You hear them say how they haven't seen each other for years, since the old shop closed over 15 years ago."

Open seven days a week, they say the shop is a real family effort with help given by their son and daughter-in-law and Mrs Sim's brother and sister-in-law, who step in to cover holidays.

Customers have also got to know their four-year-old granddaughter, Nancy, who frequently lends a hand.

Mrs Martin said: "She loves it, standing on her stool behind the counter. You can't really beat playing shops in a real shop with real customers.

"I especially employ her suggestions when choosing our helium balloon stock and I can say she is spot on with her choices ensuring we stay 'current'."

Before opening, the couple sent out a survey asking village for suggestions.

Aside from the usual milk, bread, and newspapers, their offering includes helium balloons, engraved goods, gifts and cards including personalised ones to Sholden, as well as frozen meals and fresh bread and pasties from Wingham Bakery.

They also now offer a home delivery service to elderly people who struggle to get out of their home.