A family-owned department store in Newtownards has been named the UK's Best Independent Store at the Excellence in Housewares Awards in London. The award was presented at a ceremony in the city, with cookware department manager Jonathan Sloan accepting it on behalf of the company.

Wardens of Newtownards beat household names including Harrods and Fortnum & Mason to win the award. The store specialises in home furnishings and has nine departments covering hardware, wallpaper, furniture, lighting and more. It also offers in-house curtain making, interior design and carpet fitting services.

General manager Keith Irvine said the award was testament to the dedication and talent of the team and the support and loyalty of customers. He noted it was particularly exciting as the store plans for its 150th anniversary next year.

The business has remained within the Warden family and has passed down through generations since it was established. It is due to celebrate 150 years in operation in 2027.

Strangford MP Jim Shannon praised the store's success, saying it was fantastic to hear that Wardens had won the award. He said it was encouraging to hear of the success of local businesses and that Wardens had stood the test of time due to excellent customer service and quality products.

Newtownards councillor Richard Smart also congratulated the team, describing the award as a tremendous accolade for a family business that has served the town for almost 150 years. He called Wardens a much-loved part of the fabric of Newtownards and said its success reflected the quality, dedication and entrepreneurial spirit within the local business community.