The Retailer of the Year committee took to the streets of St Albans yesterday to launch the 2014 competition.

Shoppers had the chance to pick up nomination forms to put forward their favourite retailer for each of the six categories.

Former Review editor Martin Buhagiar, St Albans Civic Society member Eric Roberts, former Liberal Democrat councillor Melvyn Teare, Conservative councillor Heidi Allen, Labour councillor Roma Mills and former Chamber of Commerce president Sandra Oldfield make up this year’s committee.

Mr Buhagiar said: "We were really pleased so many people took the time to nominate their favourite trader.

"The competition is now in its seventh year and this response shows it remains as popular as ever.

"All nominated retailers will soon receive a window poster to confirm they have been entered in this year’s competition."

The competition is a joint initiative between the Review, St Albans District Council, St Albans Civic Society and St Albans District Chamber of Commerce.

Last year Alternative Barbering Co. in George Street was named last year’s overall winner.

Short-listed retailers will be invited to this year’s awards evening, which will again be held at the Alban Arena on Monday, June 23.