AN Ilminster trader has won a national award as Home Hardware retailer of the year.

Phillip Wyatt, of Ilminster Home Hardware in Silver Street, picked up the accolade from the Home Hardware Group selected from more than 450 independently run shops throughout the country.

The cup was awarded to Phillip at the Home Hardware Convention.

Phillip and his wife Kate took over Town & Country Hardware in October 2012 after relocating from Dorset, where he ran the family hardware store for sixteen years in Upton, Poole.

Phillip said: “The success of Ilminster Home Hardware is firstly down to teamwork. All the staff and my family have played a part, and we all work together to make it a strong independent family business.

“Secondly, to Home Hardware that provide excellent stock, competitive pricing and brochures that our customers adore. We are also very appreciative of the support from the shoppers of Ilminster and the surrounding areas.”

Home Hardware is the UK’s largest dealer-owned wholesale buying group, and boasts over 20,000 products from all the leadings brands in the home and garden sector.

By combining members purchasing spend, it gives greater buying power, ensuring that customers can always expect value for money on quality brands, in their local Home Hardware store.

Home Hardware CEO Martin Elliott said “In choosing a winner, we take into account the professional approach to retailing, including promotion and customer care. It is a difficult decision due to the number of member stores, however, there was one business that did stand out, and that was Ilminster Home Hardware.”

Mr Elliott added: “Phillip, Kate and their team operate an excellent business and it’s nice to see it well supported by the local community.”

Phillip is a devoted retailer in the town and is currently president of the Ilminster Chamber of Trade and Commerce.