An Ibstock store which grew out of the lockdown years has been nominated for a top regional award.

The No Frills Refills store in Chapel Street is among a number of Leicestershire businesses named as one of the finalists in the Muddy Stilettos Muddy Awards.

The shop, run by Fran Barney, was set up two years ago.

But now it is in line for a prize in the competition's Best Sustainable Lifestyle Business category.

Fran said: "You get nominated by the public, which is always nice.

"I still have the shop in Ibstock and all the business is centred there. I have some bits at Coalville CAN and an online presence which I hope to ramp up.

"The core of the business is about refills.

"You bring your containers, and we fill them. It could be dried food, household cleaning or bodycare products.

"The range has grown quite a bit now. I try to work with other local businesses whenever I can, I have a couple of connections with Ashby, including Pet Deli.

"We have refills for dog shampoo now. Our connections all fit in with my ethos for the business."

Fran says the idea has proved popular with customers.

She added: "We started during lockdown, I was online and doing some events in September, 2020, then I got the shop in May.

"So I've been in Ibstock just over two years now. It's been something people have wanted, it's definitely growing and hopefully it can grow more."

As well as No Frills, the other nominated businesses locally are: Messy Little Rainbows (Coalville); Discover Outdoors – Forest School (Heather); Champneys Springs (Ashby de la Zouch); Alice Rose Bridal (Ashby de la Zouch); Visit Conkers (Moira); The Little Studio by Kate (Moira).

The competition closes at midnight on Sunday, and you can vote for your favourite HERE.