Pitshanger Lane residents in Ealing have spoken of their "speechless" reaction to the street being crowned best high street in London.

On Monday (Dec 1) Pitshanger Lane was given the title at the Great British High Street competition at the Admiralty House in Whitehall.

Marcus Jones MP gave a short speech about all three contestants before unveiling a name from an envelope to reveal the newfound winners.

Campaign leader, chairman of Pitshanger Village Traders Association and estate agent John Martin said upon hearing the street name he was in "shock."

Mr Martin, who opened John Martin Estates 20 years ago, said: "There was this sudden silence and then he read out our name and me and Rhian (his wife) were in shock.

"Pitshanger Lane is absolutely buzzing today (December 1) and the traders are all elated.

"It is an accolade long overdue after the battles of recent years when our unique and independent character has been threatened.

"Once again, though, we must thank everyone who has played their part in tweeting, posting and voting daily – we couldn’t have done it without them.

"The GBHS judges even said it was unanimous."

John Martin unveiling a new defibrillator on Pitshanger Lane

The street fought off competition from Raynes Park High Street in Merton and Roman Road in Tower Hamlets to first place and judges said the campaign had "delighted" them.

Harry Kyprianou, owner of Blue Ocean Fish Mongers which has been running on Pitshanger Lane since 1932, described the news as "wonderful."

Mr Kyprianou, who first started helping his dad at the shop 21 years ago, added: "I think it's wonderful news and it is very good for the community because it has been great for the high street.

"We put in hard work to please people so it is great news."

Resident Pam Foster, who has lived on Pitshanger Lane for nine years, paid tribute to campaign leader Mr Martin and said his character symbolised all the street represents.

Mrs Foster said: "All these qualities that make it a great place like fantastic service and friendliness are qualities embedded in the character of John Martin, who really carried us al along with him.

"I think the traders deserve it because we are extremely fortunate as we have a nice range of shops and restaurants which are really excellent."

Pitshanger Lane

According to Mr Martin's wife, Rhian Aubrey-Martin, said she was left "speechless" by the news and said everybody she has come across in the street has been walking around with a smile on their face.

Harry Philp, who has been visiting the street close to every day for 17 years, said: "I think it is unique because there are so many one off shops and restaurants.

"There are not many chains on Pitshanger Lane."