The Cheese and Wine Shop in Darlington shortlisted for Echo award
Caroline Elliot, who runs The Cheese and Wine Shop with her husband Dean, said being recognised in the awards means “the world” to the couple who took over the business at the end of 2024.
The couple saved the shop from closure when they took it over 16 months ago and recently moved from Clark’s Yard to a bigger premises on Skinnergate.
Caroline said: “To take it from where it was to where it is has been amazing, and then to be recognised in this award is even better.
“We’re really excited and really pleased to be recognised. It just means the world.
“It shows people are happy with what we’ve done and that they’re pleased with the advances that we’ve given the business.
βWe’re absolutely delighted.”
The new Skinnergate location, which opened just under three weeks ago, has given the shop much more space to display its products and allows customers to browse more easily.
Caroline said the response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many discovering new local products including Dionysiac beers and Coldest Kitchen chutneys made in Darlington.
She said: “We’ve got more room to display all the great products that we’ve got. It’s easier to browse, whereas in the last shop it was almost like you had to walk in and queue for the cheese counter.
“Now people can have a mooch around and they’ve been finding new local products, which is amazing.
“We’re not intimidating, we’re welcoming. We want people to be educated about cheese, and we want them to try things. It’s hopefully the good customer service that they get.”
The couple are also working on renovating the second floor of their new building, which will be used for cheese and wine tasting nights.
Caroline said she never thought the business would achieve such growth in such a short time.
She said: “This time last year I don’t think we ever thought we would achieve this and we have. Moving to the bigger premises has proven to be a really positive step.”
She also thanked everyone who nominated the business and emphasised the importance of supporting small, independent retailers in Darlington.
Caroline said: “Just a massive thank you to everyone that’s nominated us. With all the independent businesses in Darlington, it doesn’t matter whether you win or you’ve been nominated or you’re just trading in the town.
“It’s really important for us to have independent businesses. I think it’s helping our town grow.”
To vote for The Cheese and Wine Shop, simply vote for your favourite from the list and post your coupon to: The Northern Echo Best Independent Retailer, LocalIQ House, 1 Dalston Road, Carlisle, CA2 5NP. Postal entries only.
Voting closes Wednesday, May 20, 2026.