In this anniversary year of the Reading Retail Awards, organisers believe they have uncovered some superstars of retail that each day go above and beyond to ensure they deliver us all with a fantastic retail, dining or service experience.

Event organiser Stephanie Maynard from The Event Crew said: "This has been a fabulous year for entries and we have been inundated with superb retailers receiving recognition from their customers.

"The judges are going to have a difficult job over the next few weeks to decide who should reach the final!"

She went on to say,: "we all know that retail is tough at the moment, but hopefully this initiative gives a little back to the town helping to promote, highlight and spread the word that Reading is open for business!"

One retailer lucky enough to have been nominated is independent music store based in Friar Street, Hickies.

One of the few family run businesses left in the town, spokesperson Vanessa Taylor, said: "We feel very privileged to have been recognised as one of Readings best independent retailers.

"It is lovely to know that our customers enjoy coming into our store and appreciate the services we provide to the local community

"We pride ourselves on offering our customers a unique and tailored experience."

If you would like to guarantee your seat at this year's 10th Anniversary awards evening taking place at The Hilton Hotel Reading, a limited of tickets are now on sale priced at £75 each and available from www.ReadingRetailAwards.co.uk.

The evening promises to deliver a fabulous night and is once again hosted by the very lovely Sangeeta Bhabra from ITV Meridian, supported by guest performers from Britain’s Got Talent/Channel 4 and local music stars plus much more!

A full list of all the nominations can also be found on the Retail Awards website and the lucky finalists will be announced on August 29.