Gateway Chemist in Regents Park Road, Finchley, was recognised for all its hard work with the Community Pharmacy of the Year Award.

Customers nominated the pharmacy for its services and in recognition of the staff members' excellent assistance and confidential advice above and beyond the normal call of duty.

Gateway Chemist pharmacist Jack Hikmet received a plaque, book vouchers worth £50 and a choice of free training for his staff.

Mr Hikmet said: 'Our motto is 'the pharmacy that cares' and that is reflected in this award.'

A Respite Care Unit for children with disabilities ,, Buckets and Spades Lodge ,, submitted the winning nomination in the awards sponsored by pharmaceutical company SmithKline Beecham.

Buckets and Spades unit manager Barry Jacobs said that the care unit was extremely pleased that Gateway Chemist won the award, 'especially after their wonderful service to us over the past seven years.'