A SMALL betting office in Galashiels has upset the odds by becoming the the top shop in Britain.

Hundreds of William Hill branches across the UK were in contention for the prize.

But co-managers Anthony Lenton and Malcolm Howden, along with cashiers Jamie, Pamela and Jack, came with a late run down the outside to get the nod from judges.

Not only was the Market Street bookies short-listed for the Top of the Shops category, but they were also in the shake-up for the 'Give a Damn' award.

Anthony admits his team were over the moon when the announcement was made last week during a glitzy ceremony in Cheshire.

He said: "There was a big party afterwards.

"There are around 1700 William Hill shops in the UK yet we are now officially the best.

"There's a senior manager who writes reports up on the shops each month and they also compile feedback from customers.

"We'd like to thank all of our customers who make sure the shop is a friendly and enjoyable place to be."

As well as the Top of the Shops trophy, the staff each pocketed £500.

And they are also expecting a delivery of goodies to help reward their loyal customers over the coming weeks.

Although the Galashiels branch was named in the last four of the 'Give a Damn' category, it was pipped at the post.

Over the past year, the branch has raised more than £2500 for good causes, including the Margaret Kerr Unit, Alzheimer's Scotland and Stand Up to Cancer.

They also collect items to send to Borders Pet Rescue.

Anthony added: "We were the only category winner from Scotland.

"We’ve managed to put our small town on the map within our company - loads of people within William Hill are now asking us 'where is Galashiels?'"