A beloved Monmouth corner-shop has won a prestigious award.

Earlier this year Sunshine Radio presented Ron (Ramesh Samani) and the Kings Fee Spar shop with the Business of the Year 2020 award, as well as the ‘Overall Winner’ of the Sunshine Pride Awards 2020.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic the award was presented this year.

Ron told the Beacon: “It’s fantastic, it’s the best thing to happen to this store in a while.”

The corner-shop and post office has been opening its doors to Monmouth residents for more than 30 years.

He added: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Sunshine Radio for today presenting us with the award of Business of the Year 2020 and these two very nice trophies.”

Last year proved an exceptionally challenging year for Ron and the team.

The devastating flooding, which hit the town hard threatened the water supply as well as the Covid-19 pandemic were challenges the business overcame to keep the shop and post office open and serving the community.

Ron in particular, went above and beyond to help the people of Monmouth during the flooding. He donated hundreds of pounds worth of water, household cleaning products, tea and coffee free of charge.

During the pandemic, the launch of their home delivery service helped local residents as the lockdowns and restrictions took hold.

At one point the shop and post office were down to a skeleton crew, as Ron had to shield due to illness. The team persisted with opening long hours with a cheery disposition and admirable determination and really embellished the Spar motto ‘there for you’.

Monmouth residents on social media congratulated Ron and the team on the award.

One customer, Candice Alban said the award was ‘well deserved’.

Another resident, Gillian Surgey added: “Congratulations! Your shop has been a lifeline for many, not just those on your doorstep. You SPARkle!”