THE doors are always open for canine custom at a Malvern business which has just been voted Britain's dog-friendliest shop.

Stationers Austin and Co, on Belle Vue Terrace, has been named winner in the High Street category of the Be Dog Friendly Awards 2014, organised by the Kennel Club.

The awards are based solely on public vote, and with over 10,000 canine-canny businesses nominated, competition was fierce.

Sean Austin, manager of Austin and Co, said: "It may sound like a cliche, but it was wonderful to have known we had been nominated for an award. To win knowing that it was down to the customers of Austin and Co taking the time to vote or leave a review makes it extra special."

The business even has its own resident canine, Nessa the labrador, who is a great favourite with visitors.

Nessa also stars in the shop's own Christmas commercial, filmed by Mr Austin on his smartphone.

The film, already a YouTube hit, shows Nessa chasing yellow tennis balls that become Christmas tree baubles. It can be viewed on the Malvern Gazette’s website as part of our #VeryMalvern live blog.“From day one, our customers have always been the most important part of the business," said Mr Austin. "And if we can make the whole shopping experience more pleasant for those with dogs, then winning the award is justification for us being a dog friendly establishment.”

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, said: “We are so pleased for Austin and Co. It is great that independent high street shops are being so proactive in helping us break down barriers for our four-legged friends.”