A GIFT shop based in The Shambles has picked up a prestigious prize at a national awards ceremony.

The Gift Gallery, which opened in 2010, was named independent retailer of the year for the north and Northern Ireland at an event in London.

Shop owner Kate Everson said she is still in shock at the win.

She said: "It's the first time that a shop in York has won so we're the first to bring it back home to the city and we're very proud of that.

"York is home. It's a fabulous city and we are really proud to be part of it and to be on such a famous street with a great community of people."

Kate collected the award at The Greats Retail Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House on Park Lane. The event has been running for 16 years and aims to honour top retailers from all over the country.

Kate added: "When they called our name as the winner I was in shock. The staff are made up, it's a real team effort here.

"We’ve made a special window display for all of our lovely customers to enjoy and the trophy has pride of place in the window for all to see.

"The Gift Gallery wouldn’t be the shop it is today without the wonderful support of my family, staff, customers, fellow Shambles neighbours and the products from the talented designer makers which we are very honoured to sell."

The shop sells handcrafted items including jewellery, such as Harry Potter-themed charms, and homewares. Kate says items made in York are among the most popular, as well as exclusive gifts like mugs, brooches and cards.

Kate, who is originally from Birmingham, said it had always been her dream to open her own shop.

The company focuses on selling handmade items from more than 150 designers based in the UK.