Retail and Leisure Awards receive backing from Havant MP

The Retail and Leisure Awards, which are run by The News, have returned for their second year, after the first year saw hundreds pack out the award ceremony.

The five major shopping centres in the area – Meridian Shopping Centre in Havant, Cascades Shopping Centre in Portsmouth, Fareham Shopping Centre, Whiteley Shopping Centre and Gunwharf Quays – have all sponsored this year’s awards.

Havant MP Alan Mak, who held his first Havant Small Business Awards earlier this year, has spoken of his support for the awards and encouraged people to enter.

Mr Mak, who holds his constituency surgeries in the Meridian Shopping Centre, said: ‘Havant is home to a wide range of fantastic retail and leisure businesses and I encourage all of them to enter the awards.

‘From our small shops to national chains, Havant is a popular shopping destination and I’m backing all our local favourites in The News’ Retail and Leisure Awards.‘

Rob Fryer, manager of the Meridian Shopping Centre, said: ‘These awards focus staff and customers on the service provided by retailers.

‘From our point of view, we are encouraging retailers to enter this year. Retail staff often don’t get a lot of recognition for their hard work.

‘These awards bring credibility and bring their hard work to the fore.’

There are 10 categories, such as New Retailer of the Year, Team Member of the Year and Manager of the Year, plus more.

The winners will be announced at a gala black tie dinner to be held at Portsmouth Guildhall on September 17.

For details of how to enter and to purchase tickets, go to jpsouthevents.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Friday, August 5.