The fifth Retailer of the Year competition is in full swing and the nominations are flooding in.

The 2012 competition will once again culminate in a glittering gala awards evening at the Alban Arena on June 25.

This week, we are focusing on our Fashion and Accessories category, which is sponsored by the Maltings shopping centre.

With so many clothes shops in the city centre it is easy to see why people in the district are so well dressed.

But which one is the best?

Last year Gladrags took the category award.

Based in Heritage Close, the St Albans branch opened in 1985 and has since strived to live up to its customer service inspired motto: “Nothing is too much trouble.”

Owner Alex Barry said: “It feels amazing to win. It is never easy as an independent retailer to keep going in these hard times so it is wonderful that we have been recognised like this. It feels really nice that our customers have supported us in this way.

“There’ll be no stopping us next year.”

You can nominate retailers in one of six categories - fashion and accessories; specialist shops; markets trader; restaurants and cafes, food and drink and hair and beauty.

All nominations should be received by midnight on May 11. After this date our team of mystery shoppers will hit the streets, putting each and every retailer to the test. All nominated retailers will also be sent a window poster so they can blow their own trumpets.

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

To nominate a retailer text the name of the trader you want to nominate by texting the word ‘retailer’ followed by the name and address of the business to 80360. Texts cost 50p.

Or simply call 09011510856 and leave your nomination and details when prompted.

You can also nominate by filling out the form in this week’s Review or by clicking here and filling out our online nomination form: Nomination form You can also email your entry to revieweditor@london.newsquest.co.uk