One of the top 100 independent retailers

Now Suresh beaming smile is even wider.

He has just learned that - along with Newsmart in Western Road - he has been named as one of the nation's Top 100 Independent Retailers.

The Independent Achievers' Academy - which is sponsored by 11 of the UK's's major names in the convenience store trade - investigated Suresh's SSD Little Convenience store in Bixlea Parade.

They also sent a "mystery shopper" into the store to check out the choice of goods, the keenness of Suresh's prices and the kind of service he offers.

Now amid the goods piled high in the packed shop, the huge whisky bottle which is the store's bumper prize in its Christmas draw for the blind and the bargain offer signs there is a small, framed certificate which Suresh prizes above all else.

The Independent Achievers' Academy UK Top 100 is an annual quest to find the country's best convenience stores.

Anna Wallace, who heads the academy programme, says: "The renaissance of small shops is being led by these retailers, who provide local shoppers with great service and a focal point for their communities.

"We know from last year's winners that recognition was warmly welcomed by shoppers and staff alike, helping to dispel the myth that independent shops cannot compete with the big grocers."

The academy programme was set up to support independent retailers, providing them with access to top quality business advice.

The academy says it has a "rigorous" assessment process to select the top outlets. It visits all shops in its Top 100, measuring their operation against 12 retail principles.

Expert assessors arrived unannounced so that they experience the shop just as a customer would.

Anna Wallace says: "The success of local shops is important as most UK adults visit them every other day and like to be able quickly to find what they want.

"The Top 100 list makes a difference because it inspires confidence in the sector and provides motivation to all independent traders to improve their offer to customers."

Asked his reaction, Suresh said: "I am very happy!

"I would like to thank all my customers for all the support I have had from Bexhill and Little Common."

Now traders are awaiting the next move. The three top retailers in each category will receive a phone call inviting them to the academy's gala dinner in London on November 22.