Yorkshire’s revitalised high streets compete with the best for top honours

The annual vote offers the reward of not just a boost to town pride but increased footfall, a cash prize and training for shops, bars and restaurants.

High Streets Minister Marcus Jones said: “We had a record amount of high-quality entries to this year’s competition - testament to the pride local people have and brilliant work being done to boost Britain’s high streets.

“The local high street is the life and soul of many towns, villages and cities across the country and these awards are a great opportunity to not only celebrate those that are the best of the best, but also to help others learn their valuable tips for success.”

Voting takes place on the Great British High Street website and closes in November. The top three finalists in each category that have gone through to the public vote are:

City: St Giles Street, Northampton, NN1 1DE; Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 2AZ; Bradford, BD1 5RW

Coastal Communities: Prestatyn, LL17 0QT; Bognor Regis, PO21 1SR; Amble, NE65 0DT.

Local Centre: Faulkner Street Hoole, Chester, CH2 3BE; Bishy Road, York, YO23 1NA; Bath Place, Taunton TA1 3PN.

London: Raynes Park, SW20 0BU; Pitshanger Lane, Ealing, W5 1QX; Roman Road, Tower Hamlets, E3 5EA.

Market Town: Chipping Norton, OX7 5JP; Helmsley, YO62 5BN; Colne, BB9 0LX.

Town Centre: Rotherham, S60 1AE; Altrincham, WA14 1QU; Tamworth, B77 7BZ

Village: Brigg, DN20 8JJ; Twyford, RG10 9AQ; West Kilbride, KA23 9EW.

In 2014 retail guru Mary Portas visited Rotherham to see the transformation. She looked at the progressthrough the town’s Portas Pilot project and met retailers who have contributed to Rotherham’s shopping renaissance.