A host of local businesses from Burnham‑On‑Sea, Highbridge and the wider area have been recognised in this year’s Bridgwater & Burnham Independent Shop Awards, with the winners announced this week by Ashley Fox MP.
More than 1,000 residents took part in the public vote, highlighting the strong community support for the area’s independent traders.
The awards aim to shine a spotlight on the small businesses that help keep local high streets vibrant, distinctive, and welcoming.
This year’s winners include a strong showing from Burnham‑On‑Sea, with Prim & Proper taking the Beauty, Pampering & Wellness category, Collective Dreams winning Clothing & Accessories, Hurleys named top for Gifts & Stationery, and Seafoods securing the Surf ’n’ Turf title. Highbridge also celebrated success, with Maisey’s Bakery winning Food & Drink and Sopha taking the Homeware award.
The full list of 2026 winners:
- Beauty, Pampering & Wellness: Prim & Proper, Burnham
- Café: The Bridge Café/Restaurant, Bridgwater
- Children & Babies: Baby Bee Crafty, Burnham
- Clothing & Accessories: Collective Dreams, Burnham
- Craft & Hobby: Crafty Collective, Bridgwater
- Farm & Produce: Pyne’s of Somerset, North Petherton
- Food & Drink: Maisey’s Bakery, Highbridge
- Garden Goods/Garden Centre: Julia’s Flowers, Burnham
- Gifts & Stationery: Hurleys, Burnham
- Homeware: Sopha, Highbridge
- Music & Records: West Quay Records, Bridgwater
- Pharmacy: Day Lewis Pharmacy, Berrow
- Surf ’n’ Turf (Butcher/Fishmonger): Seafoods, Burnham
- Tourist Accommodation/Attraction: Admiral Blake Museum, Bridgwater
- Village Shop: Westcroft Eggs & Farm Shop, Berrow
- Other: Books and Puzzles, Burnham
Ashley Fox MP said the awards highlight the strength and character of the area’s independent sector, adding that the level of public engagement “speaks for itself” and reflects how valued these businesses are by the communities they serve.
He encouraged residents to continue supporting local traders throughout the year, noting their importance in creating jobs, sustaining high streets, and giving towns and villages their unique identity.
