The owner of a “bright and colourful” Great Harwood dog shop has said it is “lovely to be recognised” as one of the region’s best independent retailers.
Ten businesses are battling it out for your votes to be named the Lancashire Telegraph’s Best Independent Retailer 2026, with The Lancashire Dog Company, in Glebe Street, one of our finalists.
Helen Shorrock has run the business for the past 15 years, initially starting as a trade stand before building the company up to have its own shop.
She said: “It is a very nice surprise.
“It would be lovely to be recognised, but I know there is some stiff competition.”
Since arriving in Great Harwood, Helen has said that it has become more of a community asset than just a dog shop.
This has been put down to a relaxed shopping environment, as well as hosting events like a dog show and some fundraisers.
Helen added that it is not a “beige” shop and is full of bright colours.
She said: “It is more of a community, and we have a really good, solid customer base, and everyone knows each other.
“We are very chatty, and it is a relaxed shopping environment.
“We sell really nice things for dogs, we are not a beige shop, and we are bright and colourful.”
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Despite the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis, Helen says her customer base has been fantastic and continues to support her.
She adds that being a high-end brand — combined with the fact that everyone loves their dog — has also continued to drive growth.
Helen said: “I have been quite lucky, because I just sell dog accessories and my customers are fantastic, and everyone got a dog during COVID.
“We are more of the luxury end of things, and because everyone loves their dog, and you can buy a dog treat for £2, or you can buy the whole set and harness and lead, and we cater for everyone and their budget.”
A feature on each will be released every day between May 4 and May 16, with readers needing to pick up a paper copy of the Lancashire Telegraph and complete the voting slip.
The winner of our competition will be announced later in the month.
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