A BLAENAVON shop has been named the Most-loved Speciality Retailer in the UK, in an online guide.

Art and craft shop Artie Craftie, which opened in June, was also awarded the top prize of the Most-loved Local Retailer, in the Local and Loved Awards 2015, which is run by online guide to local businesses TheBestOf.

Nick and Wendy Horler sell arts and crafts as well as offering a photography service from the shop on Commercial Street.

Mr Horler said: “It is an honour that so many people voted for us – we haven’t been here long, but the people in Blaenavon have really embraced us as part of the community.”

Mr Horler, an ex QE2 chef and freelance photographer, married Wendy, a former housing officer and keen crafter in April last year in England, before moving to Blaenavon.

Mr Horler’s family hails from Abertillery.

The couple sell haberdashery items, holding craft workshops and run a photography and framing service.