THE Isle of Wight High Sheriff, Caroline Peel, has paid tribute to the winners of this year's High Sheriff Community Awards.

The awards celebrate the achievements of small business owners who have gone out of their way to assist their communities during challenging times.

Awards were presented to the shops by the High Sheriff on Wednesday and Thursday (October 21 and 22).

She said: "Without the dedication of this band of shopkeepers and their families, many residents of the communities they serve would have gone without.

"As well as looking after their customers, they were all keeping an eye out for regulars who were not in evidence, and in some cases alerting the professionals to help. They have kept the show on the road with good humour and politeness. I salute them.

"If any reader has another team they wish to nominate, then please contact me on iwhighsheriff@gmail.com."

Award winners

The Farm Shop in Bembridge — Kate Holman and her daughter, Kate Garnham, went above and beyond during lockdown, delivering orders as far as Gurnard. Jane has also been a huge supporter of the Isle of Wight Foodbank.

St Lawrence Post Office — Peter and Sharon Martin, with the help of Joanne Donbavand, have looked after the needs of those in St Lawrence, Niton and Ventnor.

The Brighstone Village shop — Dave Hollis and his team have worked tirelessly to help their local community in a number of ways.

Philip Dow, Gurnard Nisa — Helpful and considerate to all customers, and has recently retired.