A HALESOWEN shop which has survived 140 years - through two world wars, depressions, recessions and now a pandemic - is celebrating scooping an award.

Family-run clothing shop Dancers, which began life as a boot shop back in 1880 - is now run by the fourth and fifth generations of the Dancer family.

The shop in Peckingham Street, which has become synonymous with the High Street in Halesowen, has been crowned winner of the Legacy Award at The Small Awards 2020, which recognise small businesses.

Assistant manager Dave Dancer, aged 33, said the win came as a "nice boost" during recent times.

He said: “We have survived two world wars, various depressions and recessions and with our 'can do' ethos which has been passed down through generations, we will continue for generations to come."

Dave said the shop, which employs 20 staff, who are mostly part-time, prides itself on selling quality products and providing great customer service.

Dave's father Mike Dancer, aged 72, is still manager of the shop, but is not often in the store now, leaving the day-to-day running to Dave.

The shop, which gets involved with the community and works on projects with Halesowen BID (Business Improvement District), was first advertised as a boot provider of “Good Understandings.”

Over the years it has evolved into selling clothes for all the family, including school, scout and guides uniforms

The Small Awards, organised by Small Business Britain, is a nationwide search for the best small firms in the UK.

Launched in 2017, it celebrates smaller businesses that are often overlooked for recognition at other national awards.

Dancers won the Legacy Award, which recognises the unique characteristics, challenges and strengths of family-run businesses.

Judges felt the business demonstrated involvement from family members as well as success over a period of time.

Michelle Ovens MBE, Founder of Small Business Britain said: “Congratulations to Dancers for winning this Small Award!

"This is hugely deserved and recognises its amazing contribution to the local community and the UK’s small business sector.

"Firms like Dancers mean so much to their customers and staff and are truly at the heart of communities.

"The Small Awards is all about throwing a spotlight on their success, particularly in these challenging times!”