AN Arran based outdoor clothing and equipment supplier has been named amongst the best independent retailers of the year.

The island has long been a popular spot for hikers, mountain bikers and fans of the great outdoors.

Arran Active, found just a short walk from the Brodick ferry terminal, came in third place in the prestigious The Great Outdoors (TGO) Magazine Readers Awards Independent Retailer of the Year category, two places behind Keswick’s Needle Sports and last year’s winners Outside.

The store is owned by Andrew and Juliette Walsh, who moved to the island and took over a small outdoor shop at the base of Goatfell, before moving their new premises at Brodick in 2016.

An Arran Active statement said: “Thank you to everyone who nominated us and then voted, and for supporting us through thick and thin over the years!

“And from me, Andrew, a massive thank you to my long-suffering, hard-working and just brilliant team! Merry Christmas!”

The annual award ceremony, which has been going on for 10 years, lists winners of all sorts of outdoor based categories including Walkers’ pub of the year, Campsite of the year and Outdoor filmmaker of the year.

A TGO magazine statement said: “What makes these awards different – and gives extra kudos to the winners – is that it’s you, our readers, who decide the results.

“From talented authors and tireless campaigners to charming campsites and cosy pubs, the winners across our 15 categories represent the most inspirational personalities, organisations and businesses in the outdoor world.

“Congratulations to everybody who received an award – and a huge thanks to you all for taking the time to vote for them.”

For a list of winners visit tgomagazine.co.uk/awards/reader-awards.