A DORCHESTER builders' merchant faced off stiff competition to win an industry award.

Bradfords Building Supplies scooped the Independent Builders’ Merchant of the Year accolade at the Builders Merchants Awards.

The awards were presented by Dame Kelly Holmes MBE during a ceremony at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

Judges praised the Bradfords' team for their customer service to customers and suppliers, as well as the company’s online trade portal.

Commenting on the win, David Young, CEO of Bradfords Building Supplies said: “This accolade is a celebration of our ‘can do’ culture. "This award belongs to our team in each and every branch. This is a super starting point from which to kickstart our 250th anniversary in 2020.”

Dean Barrett, branch manager, Dorchester, added: “Our team in Dorchester is thrilled to receive this award because it underscores our commitment to customer service.”

The Dorchester-based firm has several other branches across Dorset.