A newsagent and postmaster in Morden who always goes the extra mile to ensure his customers get their newspapers delivered on time has won a top award for the south of England.

Anil Patel, of Londis Crown News and Post Office in Crown Lane, was crowned the southern region winner for September in the national newspaper awards run by Mail Newspapers and the NFRN (National Federation of Independent Retailers).

He said: "I didn’t think I will win it, I was so taken back. A lot of effort have been put in by my staff for all our customers.”

Mr Patel has been running his store for 13 years with his wife Rashpal. His recently refurbished store which is now the only post office in the area, after the old post office closed down.

Anne Bingham, NFRN Communications Manager said: “Anil works well with publishers and always supports any promotions they run.

“He operates a strong news home delivery service and will always go the extra mile to ensure the customer receives the paper come what may.”

The NFRN (Federation of Independent Retailers) is a trade organisation that represents 15,000 independent news retailers and convenience stores across the UK and Ireland.

Mr Patel also won the Business of the Year Award Civic in 2014, Display Award this year and a Community Award in 2013. He is now shortlisted for the prestigious NFRN National Awards that are to be held in London on 22nd November.