Buy The Light, which sells candles, home fragrance and glassware, has been short-listed as one of five finalists in the South East in the running for The Greats Gift awards.

Lesley Bancroft, who founded the company 10 years ago, said: "It is marvellous. We were absolutely delighted when we heard.

"I am looking forward to the final with great pride."

Originally based in Risbygate Street, the company has been based in Cornhill Walk for the past seven years.

The Greats awards celebrate independent and multiple retailers in the gift industry.

Miss Bancroft, 49, said: "It is wonderful news and it shows there is life left in independent traders in Bury yet.

"There are shops closing down at the moment, so for an independent to be short-listed is a real boost for us, our customers and the town itself."

The winner will be announced at a glittering award ceremony at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, in London, on May 22.

Chrissie Harrod, manager of the Cornhill Walk centre, said the nomination was a boost for independent traders in the town and enhanced Bury's unique selling point of large names and small boutiques.

"It is wonderful news that Lesley has even been chosen as a finalist," she said.

"We have got a great selection of independents in the town, who offer something special to build the Bury brand."