Celebrations were in order for the Abigail’s team after they won gold at the Kent Wedding Awards.

Owner Jo Ward accepted the prize for Wedding Dress Retailer of the Year at a ceremony on Thursday, November 14.

Mrs Ward, who runs the shop in North Street, Headcorn, with Tina and Jess Foreman., opened the business in memory of her daughter who was still-born.

The presentation evening, held at the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel, in Hollingbourne, coincided with the store’s fourth anniversary and was also Mrs Ward’s daughter Betty’s second birthday.

The 34-year-old said: “We never thought we would win. They had to say Abigail’s twice before we realised what was happening. It’s a fantastic recognition for us and for Abigail.”

The trio hope to strike lucky again at the Wedding Industry Awards, in January, for which they are finalists.