THE convenience shop MS2 Stores has been crowned best in Chippenham for customer service in the Gazette’s competition.

The Gazette and Chippenham Chamber of Commerce teamed up earlier this month to find the local business offering the best customer service within the SN14 and SN15 postcode.

Winner MS2 Stores, a convenience store in Greenway Lane, was chosen by Gazette & Herald readers to receive professional photography, a trophy and a framed award to display.

Renu and Darren Sharma have been in Chippenham for 15 years and have been running MS2 Stores for 13.

Mrs Sharma said: “It was a surprise to win, I couldn’t believe it. We try to be pleasant, it makes a lot of difference how people handle their customers.

“All you have to do is be polite and have a smile. Some of them want to talk and some don’t.

“We know our customers by name and some like a cup of tea and a chat.

“Thank you to all those who voted and to all our customers because we wouldn’t be able to do it without you.”

Eleven businesses received nominations and the following also made it into the top five: Glazed in Gastons Road, Angel Hotel, Boswells Cafe in Emery Gate and Chippenham Community & Visitor Information Centre.

MS2 Stores received 35 votes, more than double the second highest, which got 15. People commented on their “very friendly staff” and how they “care for the community”.

Chris Bonsor, president of Chippenham Chamber of Commerce, said: “Local businesses are a vital part of our community and it’s important that we recognise the service they offer.

“It’s nice people have got involved in the competition, it has captured quite a few people’s imaginations.

“We wanted to recognise the good work of the unsung heroes going that extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction; it’s good when you put something together and it works.”