PROUD owners of a tearoom in Tillicoultry last week scooped a prestigious title at a Glasgow awards ceremony.

The six-table, family-run Tea at 63 was named Coffee Shop of the Year for central region at the Scottish Independent Retail Awards 2019, less than two years after opening.

Over-the-moon owners Marina and Alex Stewart, who are supported in the shop by daughter Lauren, were delighted to receive their certificate at the Marriott Hotel last Tuesday, April 9.

Marina said that she "never thought for a minute we would get an award" and admitted she was surprised to even be shortlisted.

She wanted to give a "massive thank you" to her loyal customers, some of whom come regularly from further afield and pass many other coffee shops on the way, for their continued support.

Marina explained the small size of the coffee shop means there is a warm and friendly atmosphere and everyone gets chatting with one another when they sit in.

Going dog-friendly, an idea of daughter Lauren, gave the business a boost and allows people to enjoy a tasty bacon roll with a mean cuppa after taking the pooch out in the morning.

Opening the tea room, which will celebrate its second birthday next month, was a long-time dream for Marina who serves up a treat from breakfast to lunch with light meals and a variety of home baking on offer.

It was made possible after her husband retired from the armed forces, meaning the couple could settle and stop moving and travelling around.

With little to no business experience they started researching and building their skillset, since then they have seen visitors from across Scotland, but also New Zealand, America and Canada at the café under 63 High Street in the Hillfoots town.

Alex, who helps out on the floor when needed, said he was "absolutely-amazingly over the top" following the awards night.

He feels a successful tea room is all down to its loyal customers, the quality of food and staff as well as the warm and quirky surroundings at the premises.

A spokesperson for the awards, which saw around 400 guests, added: "The Scottish Independent Retail Awards is the leading celebration of the independent retailers who enhance our communities and contribute to the national economy by employing over hundreds of thousands of people.

"The event provided an excellent platform for networking and marketing as some of the most successful retailers and brands were present to celebrate the achievements of the retail sector."