An independent shoe shop has been crowned 'fashion independent footwear retailer of the year'.

Soles with Heart in West Malling, which stocks a range of women's and children's footwear as well as handbags and clothing, bagged the award at the Footwear Industry Awards 2020.

Teresa Hutchinson only took over the store in September and is delighted with the accolade.

Following a significant career move from being assistant manager of the Bull pub, also in West Malling, Mrs Hutchinson says this is the perfect confidence boost she needed.

The 46-year-old said: "I was very surprised to win being as I haven't been in the business for long. It's quite a compliment.

"I decide I wanted a career change back in August, and I've always loved shoes so thought I'd give a shop a go.

"My first job when I was 15 was actually in a shoe shop, so I had a bit of experience at least."

There are 24 categories in the awards, split into three main sections - brand, retailer and industry.

Around 200 companies entered overall, with 23 in the category which Sole with Heart won.

Professionals from across the field nominate companies and individuals they work alongside that they deem to be award-worthy and then voted online to find the winners.

Mrs Hutchinson also hopes the recognition could give the independent business in West Malling a boost.

She said: "The town is struggling a bit at the moment and so having this award could give people around here more confidence in using independent businesses."

The shop owner added how important staff members Constance Lucy Bell and Daisy Brooks are to the Swan Street outlet.

She said: " If it wasnt for the support of them the shop wouldn't be what it is today we are a family."

Mrs Hutchinson travelled to Birmingham to collect her award along with Ms Bell.

Read more: All the latest business news

Read more: All the latest news from Malling