A Truro shop manager has seen off competition from across the UK and Ireland to win a top award from one of Europe’s biggest employers’ associations.

Alan Dunstan, manager of The Old Dairy - Pydar Stores was named Employee of the Year by the Federation of Independent Retailers at the 2024 Fed Awards on June 18.

It was a welcome reward for a man who spent the first few hours of his 34th birthday in A&E, having been bitten by a shoplifter earlier this month.  

Alan was nominated by store owner Judith Smitham, and the judging panel - including the Fed’s national president and award sponsors - said: “He really is an ideal employee - every store should have an Alan.”

Having joined the team as a 15-year-old, Alan has learned everything about the business, and was praised for going the extra mile in the store - such is his dedication, he is often reminded to actually go home.

Judith highlighted his role in the day-to-day running of the store, stock control and HR, as well as keeping on top of new legislation and food standards. Prior to Natasha’s Law being implemented, he spent almost a year noting all allergens on an Excel spreadsheet linked to a food labelling machine. The store has an extensive food-to-go section with around 360 entries on this form.

Alan was presented with his award at a ceremony hosted by impressionist Rory Bremner at the Hilton Metropole Hotel in Birmingham. “I feel privileged - I would have never guessed I would win this,” said Alan, 34. “It’s amazing.”