MORE THAN twelve independent businesses across the county have been recognised for their hard work over the past year.

The Little Ankle Biters’ Awards asked thousands of people from across Oxfordshire and its surrounding counties to vote on their favourite place to visit and family-friendly services.

Among the winners were several local businesses that have blossomed over the past year, despite the pandemic.

Bonners Oxford, a fruit and vegetable store based in the Covered Market, won the Community Spirit Award by an ‘overwhelming majority’ due to its continued support of the local community during the pandemic.

The greengrocers, that have been based in the Covered Market since 1952, adapted to deliver food across the city throughout the pandemic.

Read here: Covered Market traders send food parcels to NHS staff

It also partnered with Oxford Hospital Charity to provide fruit and vegetable baskets, as well as wellbeing boxes, to Covid ward nurses.

Verity Piggott, who owns the renowned Covered Market shop, said: “We were touched to even have been nominated, and then winning for just reacting to what was needed in a very difficult climate.

“The whole team is so proud of what we have achieved.

“Thank you everyone for supporting us.”

Oxford Story Museum, which fully reopened in October after undergoing £6 million of renovations, won Best Museum, and the historic Cogges Manor Farm, based in Witney, received the award for Best Local Attraction.

Wantage-based children’s clothing and toy store, Sweetpeas, which opened for the first time in December, won the award for the Best Independent Business.

Tracey Smith, who owns and manages Sweetpeas with her daughter said: “We are completely overwhelmed to receive this award and our hearts are filled with joy and gratitude.

“We are endlessly grateful for the incredible support we have always received, but especially during this last year which has been the most challenging to everyone in so many ways.

“Here’s to many happy and positive days ahead.”

Other winners included Abingdon-based Bright Sparks Science, Home Start Oxford, Clip n Climb, based in Bicester, and Sprouts Barn at Millets Farm.