BUSINESS tycoons and independent retailers united at The Hilton Hotel to recognise the stalwarts and the unsung heroes of the town.

The eighth annual Reading Retail Awards celebrated the outstanding achievements of the last 12 months on Saturday evening with a black-tie ceremony.

ITV's Sangeeta Bhabra continued her unbroken run of hosting the prestigious awards and was joined for the first time by former Reading FC captain Ady Williams.

Reading Chronicle:

Stores and individuals competed in 13 categories, before one was named the overall Retailer of the Year.

The Reading Chronicle is running an eight-page supplement on this year's Reading Retail Awards, with full details of winners and sponsors.

There will also be a range of images taken on the evening and a chance to order copies.

Make sure you pick up your copy in shops on Thursday, September 21.