I started Small Business Saturday early in Bramhall, visiting fantastic shops like Crookilley Toys Emporium, who are still continuing click and collect. It was also fabulous to see new shops opening like Em's Easy Eco and FC BY DT. I also dropped by Modiste, Jim Hall Sports, Amaranth and Crookilley Crafts Emporium. 

I said in Parliament this week that lockdown reminded us that you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone. Today is a great day to show support for local shops! The Government has really helped local businesses in Cheadle, with 2,270 Bounce Back Loans and £18 million in Business interruption loans.

Today, I was out and about today for Small Business Saturday, talking to retailers like Peter Herd of Wilmslow and Ian Morris Butchers both in Heald Green, Daisies Floral Design in Cheadle Hulme, Greenhouse Books and Create It in Cheadle, who were all saying a big thank you to local people for the support they are receiving. A big thank you back to our local businesses for all their amazing work during this really difficult time. Remember to shop local wherever you can!

In the run up to Christmas, it’s a great day to be out supporting local shops and businesses. I’m running a Small Business Survey – if you are a small business please do make sure you have your voice heard and fill it in.