GOUROCK'S Kempock Street is 'top of the shops' after being named one of the best town centre locations in the UK.

It has been shortlisted for a prize at the 2019 Great British High Street Awards - and is in the running to win up to £15,000 towards a local project.

Kempock Street is up for the 'rising star' gong - one of 28 locations across the UK and just seven in Scotland competing for the honour.

The Gourock hotspot is famous for its range of independent shops, bars, cafes and restaurants, sandwiched by the historic outdoor pool and a main rail line to Glasgow.

Kempock Street was put forward for the prize by Inverclyde Council, which funded a £5.2 million redevelopment of the town centre four years ago, featuring a new one-way traffic system, car park and improved public areas.

Inverclyde's MP, Ronnie Cowan, says the nomination provides the ideal platform to showcase the town and area as a whole.

Mr Cowan said: "I'm pleased to learn that Kempock Street in Gourock has been shortlisted for 'rising star' in this year's Great British High Street Awards. "This is a welcome opportunity to promote the high street and Gourock to the rest of the UK and highlight what Inverclyde has to offer.

"I would encourage people to show their support for Kempock Street by posting on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram using #MyHighStreet and also voting at thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk."

The awards are organised by the UK Government in partnership with banking giant Visa.

An expert judging panel will ultimately choose the winner but a public vote, which accounts for 20 per cent of the overall score, is now open until October 7.

High streets minister Jake Berry MP said: "Congratulations to Gourock for being shortlisted for the Rising Star Award for this year's Great British High Street Awards. "Gourock is a superb example of how our high streets can rebrand themselves with creative endeavours that bring the whole community onto the high street.

"People are happier when they can see their hard-earned cash supporting local businesses. "That is why we are celebrating those that go above and beyond to keep their high streets thriving for generations to come."

To vote, visit thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk