The owner of a Darwen wool shop, considered an “integral part of the community”, has said it is “wonderful” to be named as the region’s best small independent retailer.
Mimi and Bee, in Bridge Street, was named the best business in the latest Lancashire Telegraph competition.
The knitting and crochet shop was one of 10 contenders vying for the accolade, with the public deciding the winner.
Having previously worked in A&E, Dawn Stansfield runs the shop and has built a strong community around her through her classes that she runs.
Dawn said: “I think it is wonderful. It is completely out of the blue, and I had put it out of my mind, and it was wonderful. So pleased.
“Things are hard on the high street, and things like that are such a boost not just for me but for all the local businesses.”
Dawn said that after the victory, the business is looking to expand the classes they offer as well as the selection of yarn.
However, Mimi and Bee’s success in our competition should come as no surprise, with a wide array of Darreners supporting her since she arrived in the town.
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Speaking during our previous interview, Dawn said: “I want to say that the people of Darwen have been really supportive, the offers of help I have had and the kindness I have been shown; it would take all day to list.
“I have not experienced that because I am a Manchester girl, and to come to somewhere where there is such a community is very different for me. I have been overwhelmed by it.
“They have not had a wool shop in Darwen for a long time, and they have helped me, supported the shop and have been coming in. It has been fabulous.”
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