Wansbeck MP Ian Lavery is calling on small shops in his constituency to prove they are the best in business.
The MP is urging outlets to enter an all-party Parliamentary competition to find the top small retailer in the country.
The award will be judged on innovation, business flair, community engagement and entrepreneurship, and short-listed applicants will be invited to a Parliamentary reception next month.
Mr Lavery said: “Small independent shops are the backbones of high streets all over the country. In Wansbeck there are so many little gems – independent, sole trader businesses that bring something completely different to the retail offer, whether that be the butcher, the baker, or the proverbial candlestick maker.”
To enter visit www.bestsmallshops.uk by January 30.