A CHARITY shop in Skipton which raises money to help children with 'life-limiting' conditions and their families has been named the best in the country.

The Martin House Hospice Care store, in Sheep Street, took the 'Charity Shop of the Year' title at the Charity Retail Association Awards in Nottingham.

Judges praised its "outstanding sales performance and strong community engagement."

Shop manager Andrina Reynoldson said: "It’s all down to the dedication and passion of our team of amazing volunteers and staff.

“I’d like to thank them all for everything they do to make this shop a success, we couldn’t achieve everything we do without them.”

Andrina and deputy manager Helen Wray have liaised with local businesses to increase stock donations and helped create new links for corporate fundraisers.

Martin House, based at Boston Spa near Leeds, cares for children and young people with and their families from across Yorkshire. It includes respite stays, emergency care and 'end-of-life' care, as well as bereavement support to families.

The hospice's head of retail Vicki Burnett said: “It’s a huge accolade for us, particularly as we were up against national charities.

“Andrina, Helen and our other assistant manager Nicola Garbutt, have done a fabulous job, creating a real team spirit with our volunteers to create a vibrant shop with a strong sense of community, which has seen an increase in shop sales - so important in helping to fund Martin House’s work.”