Harrogate-based jewellers crowned as one of the UK's favourite local businesses

Sue Kramer, who owns Crown Jewellers alongside husband Steve, said the couple were overjoyed at the accolade.

She added: “It really means the world to us that people have taken the time to vote for us, and we’d like to say a massive thanks again to our wonderful customers.

Ms Kramer noted how starting the business had been a natural progression for the couple from their previous careers.

“My husband knew from when he was 10 years old that he wanted to be a jeweller,” she said.

"He was fascinated with minerals and stones, becoming a gemologist, then a diamond expert. I’d previously run a recruitment agency so when it came to opening Crown Jewellers, Steve had the jewellery expertise and I had the business experience.

“After 22 years running Crown Jewellers, I can honestly say that it is still a joy to come to work every day."

Other finalists in the competition include women’s clothing store Chester Boutique, Colchester gift emporium Bill & Bert’s, and Bristol sustainable lifestyle store Prior. The overall winner was DIY, home and garden retailer Hurst, which has 6 branches in the Isle of Wight.

Crown Jewellers is part of the Harrogate Gift Card, introduced by Harrogate BID to encourage local shopping and accepted by over 100 businesses in the town.

Bethany Allen from Harrogate BID said: “We’re proud to see Crown Jewellers receiving the accolade as one of the UK’s favourite local businesses. Sue and Steve offer expert knowledge with friendly, approachable service, building strong relationships with customers and helping to make Harrogate a leading retail destination in Yorkshire.”

Colin Munro, managing director of Miconex, who run the Town and City Gift Card Scheme, said: “The high street is undoubtedly changing and interest in shop local continues to build. Small business owners like Sue and Steve are playing their part in the evolution of our high streets, creating the retail experience that customers want and that other businesses can aspire to.”

Ms Kramer, who is also the President of the Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce, noted her belief that community and collaboration had been key to the success of the business.

“There are undoubtedly challenges for businesses and we’re in for a tough trading period but if you involve yourself in the community, it can bring enormous benefits. My view is that instead of trying to get a bigger piece of the pie for yourself, we should all try to make a bigger pie, so the whole community benefits,” she said.

“As business owners, we all have strengths and weaknesses and working as part of a community means you can benefit from the expertise of others. It’s also about support. Starting a business can be insular and if you’ve had a difficult day, it’s cathartic to talk to others and bounce ideas off them too.”

Ms Kramer also noted how the shop’s close relationship with customers had helped the firm.

“Service is so important when you’re running a business, as is building a personal relationship with customers. Some will say that you have to sell online to be successful today, but we only sell from our Harrogate shop.

"I believe that if you have the right product, at the right price, combined with expertise, and service, that can bring you success.”