A THREE Towns pet store has now been named the best new business in the whole of Scotland.

And owner Shirley Aitken, who launched Animal Zone, in Dockhead Street, Saltcoats in 2022, said she "still can't believe it" after picking up the trophy at Scotland's Business Awards at the weekend.

She said: "I'm still speechless - and it was an amazing night."

Animal Zone was named best new business in Ayrshire at the regional finals back in September, qualifying for the Scottish finals.

Shirley said: "I am still in disbelief as it was such a difficult category, The Animal Zone was up against eight other businesses, who are all completely diverse in their field and located in high footfall cities, so as you can imagine I am ecstatic about winning the award.

"Truth be told, it is all down to the community support and their voting.

"The Three Towns do have a lot of genuine, kind, and thoughtful people who support small businesses which is what is needed, especially in these challenging economic times.

(Image: Animal Zone) Before opening Animal Zone, Shirley worked as operations manager for a major shopping centre in Glasgow. And earlier, she worked for Harvey Nicholls, where she spent two years in Istanbul launching a new store.

But she's more than happy to be working in Saltcoats and praised the town's community for all their support.

She said: "Given this is my first business it has been very exciting to know that the local community care so much.

"I am thoroughly enjoying the change of pace from my previous jobs - and it is less stressful. I love the whole community feeling here. You get to know the people, their lives and their stories."

Shirley added: "It does feel good to bring these awards back to the Three Towns and I feel it would be equally as nice to be able to let the local community know that there is some positive news in terms of small businesses doing well - especially in the current climate where some businesses struggle or are even closing."