As we move into December, Christmas lights are now brightening up our streets and Christmas trees stand in our public spaces, so many of us are on the lookout for great gifts for our family and friends. 

I know that the online sales for Black Friday and Cyber Monday mean more people now shop early for their Christmas presents, looking to grab a bargain – though evidence suggests these online ‘sales’ are not always quite the bargain they seem. But as a former high street retailer, I want to highlight that this weekend we celebrate Small Business Saturday. 

Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy here in Shropshire. Just over 90% of businesses across the county have 9 or fewer employees, and 98.5% of business have fewer than 50 employees. So backing small businesses is crucial to sustaining employment and economic growth in South Shropshire. 

When I met the Chancellor ahead of the Autumn Statement last week, I stressed the need to support our small businesses, and in particular the hospitality sector. So I am pleased his Autumn Statement last week brought some welcome measures to support small businesses. The Chancellor announced a cut to business rates by freezing the small business multiplier yet again, saving an average shop £1,650, and extending the Retail Hospitality and Leisure Relief for a year. This is an important measure towards supporting our many excellent pubs and restaurants, further aided by the decision to freeze alcohol duties until August next year. 

I know first-hand from my time as a bookseller that December sales are vital to high street retailers. So I encourage those looking to pick up Christmas presents to make the most of Small Business Saturday, and to support the excellent independent shops we have on high streets across South Shropshire. The Times recently highlighted Ludlow as one of the UK’s top 7 prettiest towns for Christmas shopping in the country – who am I to argue with that!

I also hope our local pubs and restaurants will see a much-needed boost in trade over the Christmas season. If you are planning to head out this Christmas, please do so responsibly. I am supporting Wenlock Spring’s new drink driving campaign - the Only One for the Road - and say to drivers across South Shropshire please do not risk even one alcoholic drink if you are driving. The zero alcohol options available now are great alternatives if you are getting behind the wheel.