A BIKE shop in Leigh is celebrating after winning the coveted title of independent business of the year in a hotly-contested competition spearheaded by a Southend MP.

On The Brakes, in Leigh Road, received “more than double the number of votes of any other nominee” in a competition run by Southend West MP Anna Firth.

Nominators said the shop, owned by Matt Johnson, provides “unparalleled services” to the cycling community, was praised for their generosity in service, free training and education in bike service, as well as their commitment to “making cycling affordable”.

It comes as the Conservative politician set up the initiative to celebrate the “incredible variety of small businesses” in her constituency.

Matt said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have received the award.

“I have a fantastic client base, and the support from the cycling community and my family has been almost overwhelming.

“I love giving back to the community when I can, and while starting a small business can be stressful, the support has been incredible.”

The award, which has seen several weeks of voters submitting their choices for the title, has been very popular throughout the community.

On The Brakes provides “outstanding service”, which specialises in bicycle maintenance and custom builds.

They also offer free training and education in bicycle repairs and was described as “having a wonderful attitude”, and a “hub of community knowledge”.

Ms Firth said: “I am absolutely delighted to award On the Brakes my Independent Shop of the Year award.

“The nominations were absolutely glowing. It has been a fantastic competition, and I have loved seeing all the nominees come flooding in.

“Southend is so lucky to have so many incredible independent shops, and there has been some staunch competition for the title.

“On the Brakes is an amazing initiative, and it is fantastic to present them with this title.”

Other nominees included the Phabulous Cafe, in Leigh Road, Off Broadway Restaurant, in Glendale Gardens, Argosy Toys, in London Road, Westcliff, and the Furry Dogmothers, in Bridgwater Drive, Westcliff.

One person who nominated On the Brakes said it is the “epitome of an independent shop deserving of the independent shop of the year award”.