Lakeside Shopping Centre has honoured its top shops at its second annual Retailer Awards.

A number of the centre’s stores received much deserved recognition throughout the evening, which was attended by a number of local dignatries including deputy mayor, Cllr Eddie Hardiman.

More than 1,000 shoppers voted for their favourite shops, restaurants and eateries within five categories from the 250-plus outlets in the centre.

Winners included Primark, which won the Shop I Can’t Live Without Award, and Giraffe restaurant, which took top spot in the My Favourite place to Eat Award.

Other winners on the night included Marks & Spencer, which took the Service with a Smile Award, and the Disney Store, which won the Most Family Friendly Shop or Restaurant Award.

Meanwhile, the Wow Factor Window Display Award, sponsored by the Thurrock Gazette, was awarded to River Island for its bright, interesting and alluring displays.

Also, 18 stores were presented with a certificate for achieving 100-per-cent in the Lakeside Mystery Shopper survey.

Sophie Scott, Lakeside’s marketing manager, said: “After a successful first year in 2009 we wanted to give all our customers the chance to recognise their favourite stores, cafes and restaurants again in 2010. It’s important for us to give something back to the retailers and it was fantastic to see so many visitors at the centre taking part.”