Utility payment network PayPoint is launching a scheme to champion convenience retailers.

On Monday it will begin a quest to find the 'Corner Shop of the Year' by asking Daily Mirror readers to nominate their favourite store.

"Convenience retailers are the unsung heroes of their community," said PayPoint chief executive Dominic Taylor. PayPoint will be hoping the initiative improves its reputation among retailers - many of whom have criticised payment providers over issues such as commission levels.

But Taylor said customer satisfaction was high, with many retailers applying for systems.