Nettleton shop has been named the best village store and post office in the country in a nationwide competition.

Owner Di Bell and staff member Vicky Butler were thrilled to receive the award at a ceremony at the House of Lords earlier this month. They now have a plaque in the shop that outlines the achievement.

The shop is covered in congratulations cards and bouquets of flowers from wellwishers and customers celebrated with a glass of bubbly.

Last week Mrs Bell featured on the ITV chat show, National Treasure 2008, presented by the celebrity gardener Alan Titchmarsh.

She said: "It's all very exciting. I'm absolutely thrilled. My feet haven't touched the ground."

Mrs Bell was highly commended for her friendly approach and personal touches that led to several customers nominating the Nettleton Post Office and shop for the award.

The Countryside Alliance's Best Rural Retailer awards are recognition of village communities and their spirit, through the retailers who work so hard to keep them ticking.

Countryside Alliance chief executive Simon Hart announced the 46 award winners at the House of Lords reception.

Countryside Alliance Wessex regional director Delly Everard said: "Di was outstanding in her category and impressed as being not just a great businesswoman, but a sympathetic, warm and charming lady who is a real asset to her community."

Mrs Bell, who lives next door to the shop, said: "It's fantastic. Everyone is behind us all the way. It's been an uncertain time for post offices but hopefully we're safe now. They'd be mad to close the post office voted the best in the country."