A RENOWNED wine merchant and bar based in Chester city centre has won national recognition for its innovative hybrid shop and bar business model.

Vin Santo, located on Watergate Street, won Hybrid Retailer of the Year at the Drinks Retailing Awards.

The business said that the accolade was "a testament to the hard work of the whole team."

The award recognises Vin Santo as an industry leader for both the retail experience provided to customers and their exciting drink-in menu, which includes 40 wines by the glass.

Owner of Vin Santo, Simon Parkinson, said: "This is a very proud moment for me, I am extremely grateful to the whole team who work so hard day in day out. This award clearly shows how thriving the Chester retail and hospitality sector is."

Tom Scargill, the manager of Vin Santo, travelled to London with Simon to collect the award at a glittering black tie Gala Dinner held at the Dorchester Hotel on Tuesday, February 6.