Clarks Village has been crowned one of the UK's top destinations for creative customer experiences, picking up two major accolades at this year's national CIPR Excellence Awards.

The Somerset shopping outlet took home the award for 'Best Beauty, Fashion and Lifestyle Campaign' for its tongue-in-cheek 'Pawsome Pooch' event, which saw dogs take centre stage for a weekend of pet pampering, free photo shoots, and trick displays.

Judges praised the event as a "clever, feel-good campaign" with "creative and engaging experiences" and applauded its "clever use of puns and interactive elements," which helped it stand out on social media and draw a crowd.

The campaign climaxed with the crowning of Clarks Village's new CEO – Canine Executive Officer, of course – with last year's winner being Dudley, a three-legged Hungarian Vizsla and rescue dog.

The Village also received a prestigious Mark of Excellence for its 'World's Biggest Santa Skate' – a record-breaking festive stunt launched last Christmas as part of the outlet's seasonal celebrations. The goal? To get as many ice-skating Santas on the rink as possible at once.

Centre director Chris Davis said: "Guest experience and making memorable moments is at the heart of everything we do at Clarks Village, and we're thrilled that two of our guest events have achieved such high praise at these national awards.

"We're very proud and want to thank our guests for always supporting us."

Both campaigns were delivered in partnership with PR agency Umpf, based in Leeds and London.

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