THE Saddlery Shop, based in Beaworthy, has reached the national finals of the 2013 British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) Business Awards in the 'Retailer of the Year Award: Mail Order/Internet retailer category'.

The UK's fastest growing online equestrian retailer is run by co-proprietor Lucy Nicholas, who set up the business seven years ago. Together with her family, Lucy sold their bricks and mortar shop, 'The Riding Habit' saddlery in Kent in 2006, to concentrate on the rapidly-growing internet business, The Saddlery Shop. Today, the retailer holds one of the largest ranges of horse bits held in stock in the UK, along with a wide range of equestrian goods.

Lucy said: 'We're delighted to have reached the finals of such a prestigious award, particularly as we were nominated by our customers. In the best traditions of a specialist retailer, we always endeavour to offer a personal yet professional service – and it's satisfying to know that our efforts have been rewarded.'

As part of the final judging, The Saddlery Shop's trade suppliers have been asked to add their votes to those of customers. BETA is also conducting a series of mystery shops and incognito telephone calls to the short-listed candidates.