Dear Sir,

Because of the Covid-19 pandemic the world is a different place; during lockdown many people have found alternative ways to obtain the goods, supplies and services that were readily available on their doorstep. This has meant an increase in online sales.

This uptake in online sales does nothing for your local businesses; the businesses who depend on customers walking through their doors, or relying on them to provide a service. These businesses are employing local residents, paying local taxes and supporting the local economy.

Take a minute to think about your local businesses and how you can help them, especially now they are open for business and looking forward to welcoming customers back into their premises or booking their services.

One local business which remained open during the pandemic, because of their hospital contracts, was Newton Press. This company has served the town of Newton Aycliffe for nearly 60 years and during this time has produced a weekly community newspaper (now magazine), delivered free to all residents. For Newton Aycliffe this is a fantastic resource for local news and probably the best form of advertising for businesses locally. Newton News has built up a great infrastructure and is delivered to over 15000 homes in and around Newton Aycliffe every week and is also available at various pick up points around town.

Newton News is joining me in this campaign to help residents “SHOP LOCAL”. Special incentives will be offered to any Newton Aycliffe business who would like to make residents aware of their services. To discuss your campaign contact Paul on 01325 300212, I am sure he will be able to assist in a package to suit you.

I also implore residents to support these and other local businesses, this not only helps the local economy but supports jobs and keeps these businesses and facilities alive for future use.

Paul Howell, MP for Sedgefield