The St Albans Retailer of the Year committee is once again looking for a special retailer.

The Star award was introduced in 2010 with the aim of rewarding a trader who goes that little bit further.

So if you know of a retailer who goes above and beyond the call of duty, nominate them for this special award by clicking here and filling out our online nomination form.

In 2010 Pots of Art scooped the award for the work it does with children at its store in Holywell Hill.

Last year LA James was given the second annual Star award in recognition of its 50 years of service to the city.

The Retailer of the Year competition is now in its fifth year. In total, 137 retailers were nominated by more than 1,000 people and our mystery shoppers are now out and about putting each one of them to the test.

The short-listed traders will be announced soon and the winners of each category and an overall 2012 Retailer of the Year will be named at our awards night on June 25 at the Albans Arena.

Once again the competition has been well supported by local businesses. Categories have been sponsored by Christopher Place, Maltings and the Federation of Small Businesses.

Donations have also been received from Heritage Close-based fashion store Gladrags; Eve & Adam in Catherine Street; the Printed Clothing Company in Verulam Road and London Road-based restaurant Chez Mumtaj.

Vouchers have also been received for the awards evening raffle from Maltings-based restaurant Ozone; Malrborough Road-based Kamillos; Freddies in Adelaide Street; Hatfield Road-based Kashu and Lattimore Road-based Buongiorno Italia.

Retailer group chairman Roma Mills said: "A big thank you to all of the businesses who have supported this year's Retailer of the Year awards."