YORK'S top news vendors are planning their honeymoon after four years of marriage - thanks to Evening Press readers.

You voted Acomb News your favourite news outlet in the Evening Press People's Choice competition, praising Andy and Kim Richardson for their "efficient and friendly" service.

Now the couple, who have not had a holiday since they took over the newsagents five years ago, will be able to use their prize of a UK break as a long-awaited honeymoon following their wedding on Christmas Eve 2001.

York holiday company Quartz Travel, which donated the fantastic prize, has invited the Richardsons to choose a break anywhere within the UK.

Delighted Kim, 45, said her husband, Andrew, cycled around Askham Bryan in all weathers to deliver the press.

"He has faced snow, blizzards and rain - he has come back soaked to the bone before," she said.

Kim said winning the competition had really come as a boost to Andrew, who is recovering from a hernia operation last week.

Andrew also spent three weeks in hospital with heart problems after collapsing last Christmas.

As well as the Quartz Travel holiday, the pair won celebratory champagne and a winner's plaque which they have already displayed on their counter.

Kim said their secret was their attitude.

She said: "I think we are both happy and friendly to everybody and it's not just a newsagent. We sell fancy goods, such as lamps and ornaments, as well.

"If people want something special we try and order it for them - we're very helpful."

She said: "We're very grateful and we hope everyone who voted for us will continue to come in and support us. We're delighted. Thank you all so much."

Paul Smith, director of Quartz Travel and Quartz Travel Shuttle, said he was delighted to give the Richardsons the holiday.

He said: "We love giving holidays to well-deserving people who work extremely hard within the community to make their customers happy every day."

The names of readers who nominated Acomb News were put into a draw and the winners, Gwen and Alan Townend, of Askham Bryan, were presented with a bottle of champagne.

Mrs Townend said: "I'm so delighted Andy and Kim have won. Andy cycles round our village in all weathers to make sure we get our papers and they're very friendly.

"I'm thrilled for them," said Mrs Townend.

Updated: 10:16 Monday, June 13, 2005