A butcher who was too unwell to collect an Epsom and Ewell Business Award in person was delighted MP Chris Grayling dropped it into the Stoneleigh store.

From November: Elderly care providers Home Instead win top gong at glittering Epsom and Ewell business awards bash

B. Radford and Son, in Stoneleigh Broadway, won the Best Business for Customer Service award, but owner Bill Radford was unwell on the day of the presentation on Thursday, November 26.

Your Local Guardian:

Mark Bogard, Bill Radford, Chris Grayling and David Radford

His son David said it was really lovely the Epsom and Ewell MP took time out of his day last Friday to visit the 16-year-old family business.

David said: "We were sad not to make it on the night, so it was a big surprise Chris came down to give it to us.

"He’s a very nice guy - we’ve known him for a while and every now and then he’ll pop into the shop for a little chat.

"To be honest, we were very surprised to win and we’re just very appreciative of our customers - we’ve got a special relationship."

Your Local Guardian:

Mark Bogard, Bill Radford, David Radford, Chris Grayling and Ben Smith

He also said it was fitting to win the award, since customer service is the unique quality they offer in competition with the large supermarket chains.

Mr Grayling said B. Radford and Son was a worthy winner of the award, and highlighted their importance to the area.

He said: "They’re a great example of a small, local, family-run business who are very popular and important to our area."

See the other winners from the night on www.epsomguardian.co.uk