BedfordBID supported independents into entering a nationwide competition – and the local winner is through to UK finals. 

Simi & Lola, a boutique  in Church Arcade has been voted the top independent in town and now will represent Love Bedford in the Independent of the Year 2014. The national competition will be held on Facebook, with the national winner to be unveiled later this year.

BedfordBID Director Christina Rowe said: “We encouraged local businesses to get involved via a social media and local newspaper advertising campaign". We had a good response and were pleased to see Simi & Lola topping the poll with Coffee with Art and Deelicious coming second and third locally.  

“Now we have our fingers crossed for Simi & Lola who will be helping to put Bedford on the map.” 

The boutique Simi & Lola opened last November 2013 and is run by husband and wife team Hatib and Adeola Camara. It is named after their two daughters. 

They said: “We have found BedfordBID and the Bluecaps a great help since we opened and we are delighted to join in this Love Bedford campaign.” 

The shop sells unusual clothing, handbags, jewellery and other accessories. www.simiandlola.com 

Organiser of Independent of the Year, retail expert Corin Birchall, said: “Independent businesses are the life and soul of our high street, giving a sense of character to the area and helping to ensure money is kept within the local economy.

“This competition is a chance to champion what we have and showcase all that’s great about the modern British high street.”

To vote in the national final visit www.facebook.com/independentoftheyear.