It was a night of celebration as the Reading Retail Awards honoured the very best of retail, eateries and service providers around the town.

The Reading Chronicle are official media partners of the Reading Retail Awards, which reached new heights this year as the annual awards dinner, the culmination of a five-month marketing initiative, celebrated 10 years at The Hilton Hotel, Drake Way, Reading.

The great and the good of the town joined together to recognise retail rock stars in what can only be described as a night to be reckoned with.

Joined by The Office lookalikes David Brent and Gareth Keenan, the ultimate management guru’s, the night began with close up magic, live music and comedy tom foolery.

After a delicious dinner, service stars from all sectors were humbled as anchor presenter and local girl Sangeeta Bhabra from ITV Meridian announced the winners.

The biggest winner of the night, receiving rapturous applause was Specsavers on Broad Street.

The audience learned about all of the truly outstanding contributions they have made to the town over the last 35 years.

Commenting after scooping the ultimate title, retail director Don Watts said: "We are truly overwhelmed to have received this award.

"It means so much to the team to be honoured in this way for simply doing what we all love."

Some other winners included Kiko Milano, who won the award for Best Customer Service 2019; Miller and Carter who won Restaurant of the Year and Fox and Hounds, who won Pub of the Year.

Event producer Stephanie Maynard, who has produced this event since 2010, said: "This year beyond all others has truly highlighted some fantastic superstars in Reading.

"From team managers to Saturday staff to entire retail outlets, we have been flooded with entries making it a very difficult year for the judges.

"With the help of mystery shopping experts insight6, the team made some difficult decisions.

"The sell-out tenth year really will be a party to remember!"

Speaking on behalf of The Oracle, Andy Briggs, general manager said: "We at the Oracle were again extremely proud and delighted to sponsor the Reading Retail Awards.

"Ten years of the awards demonstrates what a great retail mix the town of Reading offers as it remains the regions first choice for shopping in the Thames Valley.

"Reading continues to attract the best names and independent retailers, bringing new choices to our retail mix.

"Reading to this day remains a superb example of Retail and it's great to have an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful individuals and teams involved."

To stay up to date with the Reading Retail Awards, visit www.ReadingRetailAwards.co.uk or follow all of the news on social media at /ReadingRetail.

If you would like to see or buy any of the photos taken on the night, please visit the Reading Retail Awards online album at www.stphotos.co.uk.