A Stewarton bookshop has been honoured at Westminster after being named the best in Scotland. 

The Book Nook and owner Sarah Frame were named Bookshop of the Year at the prestigious Scottish Independent Retail Awards 2024.

Alan Brown, MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun, lodged an early day motion at the House of Commons congratulating Sarah on her win. 

It read: "That this House congratulates The Book Nook, a local independent bookstore located in Stewarton, on its outstanding achievement of winning the Bookshop of the Year at the esteemed Scottish Independent Retail Awards 2024; commends The Book Nook and its proprietor, Ms Sarah Frame, for their exceptional role in epitomising the spirit of Kilmarnock and Loudoun and in representing the best of Scotland's rich literary culture on a national stage while propelling The Book Nook from strength to strength."

Mr Brown's motion also asks that the Commons "further applauds the impact Ms Frame's work has made in the community, not least as recognised by the prestigious MP HERoes Award granted in November 2023; further pays tribute to The Book Nook's vital contribution to fostering a love of reading and literature among the young through engaging initiatives such as kids' book clubs; and applauds their ability to attract top authors for book signings and appearances, whilst keeping entry free of charge and therefore open to all. 

"Notes that this encouraging and benevolent model serves as an exemplary benchmark for local independent bookstores; and wholeheartedly encourages constituents and the nation alike to support local bookshops, which are the linchpins of our communities, ensuring that they continue to thrive as has been exemplarily demonstrated by The Book Nook of Stewarton."

Mr Brown added: "Success after success for this wonderful independent bookshop. They are a true asset to the local community and the wider constituency."