Mold's shortlisting in national awards welcomed by traders

The high street is in the running for a prize of up to £15,000 after being shortlisted in the Great British High Street Awards 'rising star' category.

The Leader visited Mold Town Centre to find out what businesses and shoppers thought about the shortlisting.

Carl Grech, of CJ's Butchers, said: "I think it will do us good. "It's what the town needs. It is not recognised enough and it needs that."

He said he would "without a doubt" encourage other businesses, residents and shoppers to vote for Mold in the awards.

Shane Mellor from Neston, who brings his business The Great British Bakehouse to Mold for the town's weekly market, said: "I think it it is certainly one of the finest high streets in North Wales.

"It is so well supported by the community and the market brings a different element to any town."

Speaking of the shortlisting, he said: "I think it will be a great thing for the town to promote."

Caroline Johnson, of The Book Shop, said: "It will raise the profile of the town and I think it is well deserved."

Richard Howells, of the Olive Tree Deli, said: "Anything that raises the profile of the town is good - especially for businesses.

"Mold deserves the recognition. We have a lot of good businesses here and it is a great place for food."

Beckie Taylor, of Lovelies Delights, said: "It is great, there have been a lot of new shops on the high street. "It is great to see so many are independent and not just high street brands.

"I will be voting for Mold."

Despite the optimism of the traders, shoppers took a more varied view on the shortlisting and what it means for Mold.

Christine Guest, from Penyffordd, said she feels the town needs more variety. She said: "It's rubbish, there's nothing here. If you want to go to the bank or a charity shop, it's ok.

"But if you want any other shops, you have to go out of town. It needs a cash injection."

Sheila Peover, from Mold, said: "I couldn't believe it (when Mold was shortlisted).

"There's nothing here like there used to be. I probably will vote for Mold though."

One man, who did not want to be named, said: "It's as good as any town centre in this area.

"It's not a bad shopping centre - they have a good market on a Wednesday and a Saturday.

"We can do all of our weekly shopping in this area."

Those supporting Mold and voting for the town in the Great British High Street Awards are encouraged to use the hashtags #MyHighStreet, #VoteMold and #ShopLocal

To find out more and to vote, visit