A FAMILY-RUN Lakes business is celebrating after scooping a top industry award.

Ambleside-based Stewart R.

Cunningham Outdoor Centres struck gold in the Go Outdoors Retailer of the Year competition.

The firm's store at Betws-y-Coed in Snowdonia was acclaimed as the top shop in Wales in the national awards organised by Go Outdoors, the Outdoor Industries Association, in association with Berghaus and supported by Victorinox.

Wendy Rainer, and her husband Steve run the Welsh store and they were presented with the award by Sir Chris Bonington at a special reception in Harrogate.

Wendy is the daughter of the firm's founders Stewart and Pam Cunningham.

The hotly-contested competition started earlier this year when customers were asked to nominate their favourite outdoor retailer.

A shortlist was then drawn up and each store was visited by a 'mystery shopper' from retail experts Amber Arch.

Manager Wendy Rainer, who originally hails from Windermere, said: "Winning this award is recognition for all of our dedicated loyal team in Betws-y-Coed.

We have always strived to provide a service second to none for our customers."

She added the firm had gone into the competition as rank outsiders because it was not a member of the association and did not stock certain products made by the awards' sponsors.

Stewart R.

Cunningham Outdoor Centres was founded some 31 years ago when the firm's first store opened in Ambleside.

A second shop followed in Hawes and the Snowdonian store was added nine years ago.

The business sells a wide range of outdoor clothing and equipment, from waterproofs and boots to rucksacks and other gear.

The Welsh store, which is being extended, also handles online sales from the firm's website.