LUDLOW supermarkets and convenience stores have taken the first three places in South Shropshire Disability Forum's Access Awards for 2014.

The awards are given every year to businesses that have made, in the opinion of the judges, the best efforts to improve access to disabled people.

This year first place went to Ludlow's Co-op followed by One Stop in Gravel Hill and One Stop in Tower Street.

"We have a higher that average proportion of elderly residents here in south Shropshire so it’s important that we have easy access to as many shops and other businesses in Ludlow as possible,” said Vivienne Parry, chair of the south Shropshire Disability Forum.

“It is gratifying to see so many businesses improving their accessibility year on year."