Our Shop Local campaign is all about championing our favourite independents – so here’s a word from some of them on why you should shop, dine and browse with Cheshire’s finest.

Great British Life: Shop Cheshire says Cheshire LifeShop Cheshire says Cheshire Life (Image: Archant)

Click here to submit your nominations for the 2020 Cheshire Life Keep Life Local Awards

Jaunty Goat

“Following on from the tremendous support from our customers and friends during our takeaway-only period, we’re pleased to welcome everyone back to both our Bridge Street and Northgate Street shops to sit in for coffee, cakes and our food menus – served safely with the care and genuine hospitality that make the Jaunty Goat experience.”

57 Bridge Street and 128 Northgate Street, Chester

01244 421 492

hello@jauntygoatcoffee.co.uk

jauntygoat.co.uk

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McQueens Dairies

“The demand for milk deliveries increased massively during the coronavirus pandemic and we hope our new customers appreciate how convenient it is to wake up to fresh milk, juice and eggs on their doorstep before 7am. It’s one less thing to worry about during these trying times.”

6 Ambassador Place, Altrincham

Adam McQueen, 0330 555 5588

mcqueensdairies.co.uk

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Nettle

“We were keen to re-open as soon and as safely possible, not just for ourselves but in solidarity with the other independents that give Nantwich its unique vibe. Recent events have clearly reinforced the value of shopping local – we offer a more personal touch, which people like and our customers have been supportive when looking for unique gifts, flowers and plants.”

30 Beam Street, Nantwich

Kate Plant, 01270 314 689

nettlehomeandgarden.co.uk

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Jordy’s Pizza

“We have been providing pizza at weddings, parties, corporate events and markets for five years. We catered a couple of nights at our local pub prior to lockdown and decided to use it for a collection and delivery service at weekends, for which we’ve had a fantastic response.”

Nantwich

Jordan Hassall, 07772 677 219

jordyspizza.co.uk

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Combermere Abbey

“Cheshire people and those from beyond have spent a long time inside and we’re glad to be able to now offer them an escape. Whether you’re family, friends or a couple looking to treat yourself after the events of the year, Combermere Abbey is perfect for kicking back with nature and enjoying the open air and countryside. What’s more, the cottages are dog-friendly and there’s lots of local Cheshire businesses to support during your stay.”

Combermere Abbey, Combermere, Whitchurch

sales@combermereabbey.co.uk

combermereabbey.co.uk

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CHATTELS

“Creating stunning living spaces is at the heart of everything we do. We aim to inspire and excite you with the beautiful, hand-selected bedroom, dining and living room furniture on display and help you with our down-to-earth, friendly service, to enhance your home with stylish, modern furnishings that are built to last.”

42 City Road, Chester

01244 322 280, info@chattels-designerfurniture.co.uk

chattels-designerfurniture.co.uk

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Oxi Garden

“Born in the coronavirus pandemic, we launched our exciting new business Oxi Garden, using the latest technology and local manufacturers to handmake our products in our home county. The ‘Oxi’ name comes from the oxidisation process that creates the stunning orange glow in our products. With a range of screens, chimineas, garden storage boxes and planters, we’ll transform the look of your garden.”

Crewe Hall Farm, Old Park Road, Crewe

Shaun Clarke and Lawrence Thomason, 0844 846 0755

info@oxi-garden.co.uk

oxi-garden.co.uk

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Tabernam

“Re-opening has been a positive experience for us. Our main aim was to create a safe, fun and relaxing environment for our clients to shop in – somewhere you can escape for an hour or two – but we’re also doing doorstep drop-offs for those who can’t come to store. As an independent business, our focus is on personal service: clients become our friends and suppliers feel part of the business. We take the time to get to know you, get to know your style and, a new thing for us, get to know how you want to shop in these uncertain times. Tarporley is a high street full of independent shops, cafés and restaurants, each with its own personality and we’re grateful to be a part of it.”

58 High Street, Tarporley

01829 732 111

@tabernam_tarporley

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White Ribbon Boutique

“We’re a family-run, small independent chain of ladies fashion boutiques, based in Cheshire and trading in the market towns of Northwich, Sandbach and Nantwich. We have fashion shows in the towns we trade in and have on two occasions worked with fashion icon Gok Wan, showcasing our collections at his shows. It has never been more important to shop at your local stores – not only to help your local community but also to keep yourself safer than ever thought possible.”

23 High Street, Nantwich

01270 748 840

whiteribbonboutique.co.uk

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Warrington Market

“Warrington Market is home to more than 50 businesses over two floors, including the flagship Cookhouse with 12 food vendors, two bars and a large dining hall and open terrace. Visitor safety is a priority and you’ll find traders and staff wearing face masks and working from behind sneeze guards. Contactless payments are encouraged and hand-sanitising stations are located at all entrances, alongside a close management of shopper numbers.”

Jay Seville, 01925 635 711

facebook.com/warringtonmkt

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Booths

“Family owned and operated, independent retailer Booths has swiftly adapted and continued to serve its customers with the highest quality, locally sourced and seasonal products throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Responsible business practices are integral to Booths, which strives constantly to engage with the wider community while developing long-term partnerships with local suppliers and producers.”

Booths Hale Barns, The Square, Hale Road, Hale Barns, Altrincham

Booths Knutsford, Stanley Road, Knutsford, Cheshire,

booths.co.uk

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La Maison

“We are a family business with three stores (established 18 years ago), selling hand-picked fashion, gifts and homeware. During lockdown we have been improving our website and fulfilling free local deliveries. With special measures now in place in our stores, our staff are excited to be back offering a friendly service. We look forward to welcoming old and new customers in through our doors and hope they continue to support us as it really does mean everything.”

50 High Street and 22-24 Hospital Street, Nantwich

lamaisongifts.co.uk

(use discount code CHESHIRE10 to receive 10 per cent off your order)

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Aldeli

“Opening our doors after three-and-a-half months has never felt so good. We have missed the interaction with all our loyal customers and are thrilled to see so many new faces too now that we have re-opened. We have a spacious heated patio outside the deli, which has really drawn people in, enabling customers to feel more comfortable to dine out in a safer capacity and environment. It has been fantastic to see people out and about and it goes without saying how important it is to support local, independent businesses in your area. We really appreciate all the support we have received as a small business in this uncertain time.”

London Road, Alderley Edge

01625 587 509

aldeli.com

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Abi Fisher

“Alongside the importance of shopping with independents to financially support our local communities, local businesses offer a truly personal touch. At Abi Fisher, we are proud to provide our clients with a bespoke styling service that can’t easily be found on the high street. We also place huge importance on the individuality and affordability of the luxury brands we stock and enjoy sharing our love for fashion with clients through hand-picked suggestions and friendly advice.”

Park View, Wood Lane, Willington.

Open by appointment only (Wednesdays and Thursdays 9am-5pm).

01829 781 721

info@abifisher.co.uk

abifisher.co.uk

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The Little Paper Shop

“The Little Paper Shop is already known to locals as a creative hub, but we’ve also got creative with new ways for our customers to shop post-lockdown. You can now shop the entire store online – choosing delivery or kerbside click & collect as preferred, book a virtual personal shopping appointment where we’ll FaceTime you from the comfort of your sofa, and even buy now, pay later, with Klarna as a new payment option at checkout. It’s been so positive to see the support for local businesses come out of this crisis, and buying with your local independents will not only provide you with a much more enjoyable and supportive social distancing shopping experience, but also keep your local high street thriving long after the Covid-19 crisis is over.”

34 Hospital Street, Nantwich

Cara Green, 01270 627 389

cara@thelittlepapershop.com

thelittlepapershop.com

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Black White Denim

“We spent lockdown getting to know our stock intimately and developing new marketing skills to reach our customers. And we’ve now emerged even stronger. Our whole team is back from furlough. Come and discover the gem you have on your doorstep. No-one knows fashion like us in Wilmslow – at Black White Denim, you buy less but you buy better.”

57 Alderley Road, Wilmslow

Jo Davies, 01625 521 233

joanna@blackwhitedenim.com

blackwhitedenim.com

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Discretion

“We were delighted to be able to reopen and provide such an essential service once again. Wearing wigs is very personal, and such a key element for helping self-esteem and wellbeing. It has been such a pleasure to help people smile in these strange times. The personal touch is so important, so thank you for continuing to support all the local businesses.”

Sandbach Enterprise Centre, Wesley Avenue, Sandbach, CW11 1DG

Sarah Stanley, 01270 767 787

info@discretionwigs.co.uk

discretionwigs.co.uk

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Wild & Wild

“We’re so grateful to be able to welcome our incredibly supportive community back into our newly renovated space. The lockdown forced us into some creative crisis management forays, which turned out to be an incredible experience – delivering our Essential Veg Boxes and Afternoon Tea Grazers, which were received so well. We’re back now and more excited than ever to continue to serve our wonderful customers.”

2 Bridge Street, Congleton

Now open seven days a week and late night Thursdays until 8pm.

01260 409 327

wildandwild.co.uk

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Decent Drop

“I was about to buy a bar and then lockdown hit, and the deal was off. I started Decent Drop to offer much-needed wine and cheese supplies to the good folks of Manchester and Cheshire. It’s a great way to enjoy quality food and drink at home, without needing to step outside your door.”

Carl Peters, 07708 503 239

decentdrop.com

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HEganART

“I have been making fabric face coverings during lockdown and selling them at cost on my Etsy page and through Facebook, however my usual craft is handwoven textiles for the home. I weave by hand to keep alive the traditional craft, and it’s my small contribution to slow down the textile industry. I try to only use wool and fabric that is destined for landfill to remain eco-friendly. In the coming months, I will be expanding my work to include recycled fabric harem-style pants, as well as a range of small gifts and decorations as we approach holidays such as Halloween and Christmas.”

Hanna Egan, etsy.me/3fru8z3

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Idesignanddraw

“Our pets have helped us navigate through the pandemic by helping our mental and physical self, or simply by sharing our home during isolation. People order a pet illustration from me for friends or family as a thoughtful, unique gift. I love being involved in something so close to people’s hearts and providing something so personal.”

Hannah Jones, 07956 622 490

idesignanddraw@gmail.com

idesignanddraw.com

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Plant & Soul

“Lockdown has been a challenge for us as we started selling our macramé plant hangers, made from offcuts of 100 per cent recycled T-shirt yarn from the fashion industry, just four weeks beforehand. Fortunately, through shop local/shop sustainable campaigns like this, we have received overwhelming support. Available in natural, pastel and neon colours, this is macramé with a modern twist.”

Libby Brunskill,

info@plantandsoul.co.uk

numonday.com/shop/plant-soul

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Porsche Centre Chester

“We are delighted to be back open with our usual operating hours. For the safety of our customers and colleagues, we have implemented new procedures throughout our centre to include social distancing, as well as hand sanitising areas. You are now able to make appointments with our sales team, book your car in for service or repair work, and order or collect items from our parts department.”

Cheshire Oaks, Cheshire,

CH65 9LF

0151 373 4899

porschechester.co.uk

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Ollie and Fred

“I design scarves, socks and silk pocket squares that celebrate local people and culture, such as the Manchester Bee scarf. Delivered individually gift-wrapped with a personalised handwritten message, Ollie and Fred products make beautiful presents, especially as I’ve recently made them letterbox-friendly and available to buy online. I’m also proud to donate a percentage of profit to local charities.”

Katherine Kershaw,

07738 472 075

orders@ollieandfred.co.uk

ollieandfred.co.uk

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Graze Cheshire

“My company is all about sourcing and eating local produce as much as possible. We are blessed to have a county full of the best artisan food makers. I support my local farm, cheesemaker, smokehouse, bakery and honey farm, to name a few. This helps our local economy and also introduces my clients to makers they may never have heard of before.”

16 Marryat Close, Winwick, Warrington, WA2 8XS

Laura Billington,

07921 504 480

grazecheshire.co.uk

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Chalk Coffee

“We’re fighting back against Covid by offering Chester an affordable taste of luxury. With coffee sourced from some of Europe’s finest roasters and food products from incredible local bakers and suppliers, we’ve got something to tickle everyone’s fancy.”

24 Watergate Street, Chester, CH1 2LA

Edward White, 01244 343 345

hello@chalkcoffee.co.uk

chalkcoffee.co.uk

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H&H Lifestyle

“We are two Hannahs, both aged 28 and sisters-in-law. We share a passion for high quality, affordable luxury products. Lockdown provided the perfect opportunity to turn our vision of creating a brand that we ourselves would love, into a reality. H&H Lifestyle is committed to working solely with local British suppliers to ensure sustainability and support local economies in this ‘new normal’ world.”

Hannah Ross and Hannah Wallace, 07707 764 946

hhlifestyle.co.uk

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Cheshire Quality

“We opened on February 29th, and, four weeks later, we locked down. Initially working with 30 local producers, we decided the time was right to grow our business – even in lockdown. We are now proud to be working with more than 50 local businesses, delivering locally for free and posting UK-wide. We would like to thank the local community for the support we have received so far, as without this I am not sure we would have been able to reopen our doors.”

23 King Street, Knutsford, WA16 1DW

John-Paul Jeffs, 01565 654 540

info@cheshirequality.co.uk

cheshirequality.market

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Sandbach Music

“We now offer music lessons via Zoom as well as face-to-face lessons on our premises. We stock sheet music from all major exam boards and play-for-fun music as well as gifts, instrument accessories including guitar strings, woodwind reeds and rosin as well as instruments and specialised music-themed cards.”

10a Congleton Road,

Sandbach, CW11 1HJ

Daniel Keen, 01270 762 546

info@sandbachmusic.co.uk

sandbachmusic.co.uk

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Muse Studio Jewellery

“Throughout Covid we took the necessary precautions to protect our staff and customers. However, we continued to operate with the classic British mentality of ‘keep calm and carry on’. We were determined to not let this affect our business, which we’ve worked so hard to build. Luckily, we have an amazing online audience that’s supported us throughout. When you shop with us and other local independents, you’re really supporting where you live and people’s dreams. And after all, we’re all in this together.”

411 Torrens, Clippers Quay, Waterman Walk, Manchester

Georgia Taylor, 07711 851 712

enquiries@musestudiojewellery.co.uk

musestudiojewellery.co.uk

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The Grosvenor Art Society of Chester

“As the popular Chester exhibitions of the Grosvenor Art Society have been cancelled due to Covid-19, for the first time we are holding an online exhibition to showcase our members’ work during lockdown. This provides a wonderful opportunity to view the varied and creative works of the members safely, and the paintings are for sale direct from the artist.”

Janet Prosser, 07580 618 287

info@grosvenorarts.org.uk

grosvenorarts.org.uk

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Amaranth

“Now more than ever we need to look after our health, and Amaranth is here to help. We have a team of nutritionists and health advisors in our health stores and treatment rooms. We have supported our customers throughout lockdown with local deliveries and free telephone advice, and are now delighted to welcome people back to our stores. We thank everyone for choosing to shop with their local independent shops; this support will make a big difference to the future of your local high street and community.”

19 Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall

11-13 Royal Exchange Arcade, Manchester

Joanne Hill, 0161 439 9856

hello@amaranth-wellbeing.com

amaranth-wellbeing.com

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Flowers on the Cobbles

“For too long, florists’ shops had been unapproachable and fusty, and I wanted something warm and welcoming where everyone feels at home. With a loyal following of customers, who now feel more like friends, I think we have achieved that. Our style is pretty, loose country flowers with a hint of vintage about them, as it benefits our location in the pretty, rural market town of Sandbach. We’ve just launched a new website and have rearranged the shop to concentrate on bespoke gift items and gifts to go. So far, so good.”

43 High Street, Sandbach, CW11 1AL

01270 766 229

flowersonthecobbles.co.uk

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Combined Charities Christmas Cards

“This year especially, charities need your support. What better way to do this than by buying something you have to buy anyway and supporting your favourite charity? From October, the Combined Charities Christmas Card shops will start to open across Cheshire and South Manchester. Featuring more than 50 charities across the four shops, whether it’s a specific charity you wish to support or you just want to ‘do your bit’, there will be a card for you. And the best thing? Every penny raised by card sales goes straight to the individual charities.”

christmascards.org.uk

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Bloom + Bo

“Relax and refuel with Bloom + Bo, an innovative new café and bar. Having previously opened in March – albeit for three days – we’ve reopened for sit-in and takeaway fresh food and a variety of hot and cold drinks, boosted by a tidy range of craft beer and ethically-minded wines. Our locally-sourced apple-roasted ham and Cheshire cheese sandwich, ‘The Nantwich’, is becoming a popular request. We also house a charming artisan shop, selling everything from craft beers, Italian pasta and snacks to a tasty selection of sushi products.”

Pillory Street, Nantwich

Gary Hynman, 07950 889 113

garry@bloomandbo.com

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Me & Mr Jones

“Our recently opened Frodsham-based interiors, gift and coffee shop, Me & Mr Jones, sources only the best suppliers, using local wherever possible and offering takeaway coffee, cakes and snacks. We, a couple in real life and former air stewards for Thomas Cook, made it our goal to open up the boutique coffee shop after being made redundant in September 2019. We had secured the premises at The Old Ticket Office in Frodsham Station when Covid struck, so we used the extra time to learn and plan.”

Unit 2, Station House, Church Street, Frodsham

Adrian Leary and Paul Jones, 01928 890 549

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Don Alberto

“We continued to operate as a takeaway through lockdown, and every Sunday, until we were allowed to reopen, we delivered meals to Leighton Hospital to feed workers on the frontline. We delivered for 14 weeks in total, cooking up about 420 lasagne trays and 140 12-inch pizzas, as well as sending a further 40 meals to Mount Pleasant Care Home, in Knutsford, and 15 dishes to the Sandbach and Middlewich Police officers. It’s so important – even more so now – to shop local, dine local and support local in order to keep our towns and villages alive.”

1 Macclesfield Road,

Holmes Chapel, CW4 7NF

01477 537 084

donalberto.co.uk

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Meraki Hair and Beauty

“We are so grateful for the support of our clients both old and new. The months of lockdown were challenging for us all. We kept ourselves focused through very regular communication with our clients via social media channels – bringing fresh ideas on colour and styling. We were lucky enough to have a strong waiting list to work through in July when we reopened. We continue to put an emphasis on being Covid-safe in a warm and friendly environment and to encourage clients to return with confidence. We offer 20per cent off colour services to new clients and look forward to welcoming you.”

28 Park Road, Hale, WA15 7AD

Joanne Weir, 0161 928 0526

merakihale.com

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Jo’s Couture Cakes

“After 10 years of delivering award-winning wedding cakes to wonderful couples marrying at leading Cheshire venues, 10 weeks into 2020, we faced lockdown. No weddings, and no cakes. It was devastating. I have used Covid-19 as an opportunity to focus on learning new skills and techniques to carry my designs forward as I would never normally have the time. I cannot wait to show you what I have achieved when weddings begin again!”

Jo Pennell, Nantwich,

joscouturecakes.co.uk

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Ben’s Burger Box

“Starting out in 2020 with our gourmet streetfood, ready to launch on Easter weekend, we’ve seen plenty of challenges but it’s made us adapt and be more creative, both as a business and also as individuals, making sure we were feeding Cheshire’s burger cravings during lockdown. We are proud to say that we are up and running, doing pop-ups and takeaways (check out

@bensburgerblog on Instagram to see where we are next), and we’re taking private bookings for weddings into next year. We have some amazing burger creations, including our signature burger with a homemade jalapeño and garlic marinade, and our spiced pineapple chutney is a must try.”

Ben Crane, @bensburgerblog

bensburgerblog@outlook.com

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angemade

“Starting a new business can be a daunting task at the best of times, but when a pandemic hits a few weeks after, it has been a tremendous challenge. But that hasn’t stopped angemade from creating beautiful art, upcycling pre-loved fabrics and following her passion to help others by creating a range of craft kits and running craft workshops on limited numbers.”

Angela Roberts, Middlewich,

angemadeart.co.uk

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The Swan

“The Swan has a fantastic sense of community and is the perfect place for Cheshire residents to kick back and enjoy some time with friends and family. The historic building has numerous rooms and alcoves for dining and drinking, including a back bar with a stone floor, beams and inglenook range. There are also light and sunny window tables for larger groups or those who like to watch the world go by. The Pickering Room offers a more formal dining area.”

50 High St, Tarporley, CW6 0AG 01829 733 838 theswantarporley.co.uk

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Orchard Cheshire

“Through the height of Covid-19 and lockdown, I offered all of my customers a discount, and they stayed loyal. My candles gave them something to brighten their day and my small business thrived. I’ve since introduced subscription boxes and a reward scheme. I have now launched my Christmas fragrances, which this year are Christmas Tree; Frankincense and Myrrh, Cinnamon and Apple and Festive Cranberry.”

Sale, Lesleyanne Andrews, 07769 110 892, contact@orchard-cheshire.co.uk orchard-cheshire.co.uk

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Little Pressed Flower

“Established this year, I grow and press flowers to preserve in botanical artwork, jewellery and other gifts. It has been inspiring reading customers’ reasons for purchasing from me during these unsettled times. As we look forward to the Christmas season, I’m excited to continue spreading that joy, and some festive cheer, especially as this will be quite a different Christmas to what we’re used to.”

Middlewich, Ashton Yates, littlepressedflower@gmail.com etsy.com/shop/littlepressedflower

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The Rowan Tree Box Co

“Not very long into lockdown, we struggled to find a company that would deliver fresh British veg in our area and realised there was a gap in the market to champion great British produce, sourcing as locally as possible and providing a plastic free service. And so, the Rowan Tree Box Co was born. We strive to provide our customers with the very best seasonal salad and vegetables, grown in Great Britain, delivered by hand to their door. We have recently started sourcing some British fruit and, as we move into the autumn and winter, we plan to provide grass-fed lamb boxes from our family farm and Christmas Dinner boxes, too.”

Nomans Heath Ross Murray and Hannah Noble, 07970 326 773, rowantreebox.co.uk

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Burt’s Cheese

“Like many food producers, the closure of the hospitality sector back in March had a big impact on us. With maturing rooms full of cheese, we started offering free home deliveries to WA14, WA15, WA16 postcodes and had such a fantastic response. We’ve also been working with other local businesses to source complementary products such as chutneys and wines, now available through our online shop. Our Christmas gift sets include the mini Burt’s Blue with Peter’s Yard crackers and a Fruits of the Forage, mini Burt’s Blue with Graham’s port, and a cheese board selection of cheese with half bottles of wine.”

Ash Lane, Ollerton, Cheshire, WA16 8RQ, Claire Burt, 07709 394 292, claire@burtscheese.com burtscheese.co.uk

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The Cheese Shop

“We are a new business stocking between 120 and 140 cheeses, from the UK and around the world. They are all artisan cheeses and in many cases, we know the farmer, the cheesemaker, the provenance, the herd and the land the animals have grazed on. We are also stocking vegan cheeses, Spanish pâtés, biscuits, Italian deli goods, oils, vinegars, chutneys, fresh olives, sun-dried tomatoes… we are trying to offer as much local produce as we can, and of course Nantwich is the heart of the cheese industry in Britain. We are taking a lot of orders already for hampers for Christmas; we have hampers to pick-up-and-go, or bespoke hampers tailored to your requirements.”

12 Hospital Street, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5RJ, Nick Birchall and Christopher Hogan, 01270 698295, cheeseshopnantwich.co.uk

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The Oddfellows Arms (Oddies)

“The Oddies reopened on August bank holiday weekend and we were so pleased to see so many of our regular, and indeed new, faces. Like everyone, we have had to adapt our little pub, but even with the revised layout the great Oddies atmosphere remains. And with the restaurant and bar area serving the same menu, there is plenty of room to safely accommodate everyone, although we strongly advise pre-booking, even if it’s only for drinks. See you soon.”

73 Moor End Road, Mellor, SK6 5AH, Tiah Jones, general manager, 0161 449 7826, 07764 535 433, oddfellowsmellor.com

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Plant Power

“From humble beginnings, Plant Power was founded by Cheshire boy Larry Hill, with a mission to make meat-free tempeh, originating from Indonesia mainstream. Now stocked in Sainsbury’s stores nationwide and with a new online store to cater for those who are isolating, Plant Power is the award-winning local business that’s changing the world through the power of the plant.”

3 Churchyardside, Nantwich, CW5 5DE, Millie Ralston, 07909 602 961, plant-power.co.uk -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Georgie & Co. Beauty

“Christmas is coming and we are determined to continue to turn an unsettled year around. Lockdown saw us close for five months so we took the opportunity to plan, expand and completely refurb our existing luxury boutique salon. The coming months will see us enforce the ‘support local’ ethos by collaborating with some amazing small local businesses and charities to bring you lots of festive cheer, gift ideas and a complete sense of well-being.”

1 The Old Coach House, Castle Farm, Cholmondeley, SY14 8AQ, Georgie Proctor, 01829 720 841, georgieandcobeauty@gmail.com georgieandcobeauty.co.uk -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pet Box Co

“It’s been strange times for all in the last few months; we have managed to survive thanks to our loyal customers and we are super grateful for their continued support. Each Pet Box contains between four and eight products, with a mix of treats, toys and accessories to fit in with our unique monthly theme. We will continue to work hard to bring you the highest quality products direct to your door.”

Faddiley, James Wetton, 01270 524 115, james@petboxco.co.uk petboxco.co.uk

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Busy Mum’s Club

“Busy Mum’s Club, born and created during lockdown, is here to help bring calm to the chaos of motherhood. The first of its kind in the UK, it is a planner that can help a mum to plan, budget and save in all aspects of family life. A planner that helps organise the social and financial side of the school and nursery calendar, all while looking after the most important piece of the jigsaw – mum. Our planner is the Christmas must-have gift this year, with a premium chic look and the packaging and keepsake box that could be straight off the shelf of Selfridges. After staring redundancy in the eye earlier this year because of the pandemic, we have been able to bring our dream to life.”

Nantwich, Stef Meachin and Lyndsay Anckaert, 07799 402 875, hello@busymumsclub.co.uk busymumsclub.co.uk

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The Lion at Malpas

“The Lion at Malpas opened its doors on September 16th as the newly refurbished former Red Lion. Alongside multiple dining and drinking rooms, the pub has a large entertaining suite, the Brereton Suite, and 16 rooms. The Lion is aiming to bring the community of Malpas together in a safe and secure way.”

1 Old Hall Street, Malpas, SY14 8NE, 01948 807 070, info@thelionatmalpas.co.uk thelionatmalpas.co.uk -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wichcard Northwich

“We are a discount card with more than 70 local discounts exclusive to our cardholders. The card was launched in the midst of the pandemic to help businesses with free marketing and advertising. In return, they make our cardholders an exclusive offer. We don’t charge any business to join us. Buying a Wichcard gives great discounts at local businesses and in return our cardholders are supporting local businesses by spending while saving at each of our partners.”

Ryan Williams, 07932 559 978, info@wichcardnorthwich.com wichcardnorthwich.com -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HERE'S WHO LOVES SHOPPING IN CHESHIRE

‘I love Victors restaurant and bar in Hale village – it’s stylish and trendy with an eclectic menu. I also adore Ashley Hall, part of the Tatton Estate, which boasts the finest rural walks in the county’

Liz Taylor, Bowdon

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‘We’ve missed our friends at Little Tap in Tarporley and Cornichon in Tarvin. Both do amazing dishes and cocktails and have been thoroughly missed during lockdown. Little Tap specialises in small dishes, which are perfect for sharing – you get to pick a little bit of everything, which means you never get food envy’

Kitty Hill, Knutsford

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‘My kids and I absolutely love visiting Waugh Brow Farm Shop to get our yummy meat and veg, but also to play in the farmyard play area and visit the animals. I’ve really missed popping down to have a cup of tea and a cake from their snack shack, while the kids run around in the fresh air and climb on the hay. We can’t wait to go back’

Becs Jeffrey, co-founder of Jugglewear, Hale

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If you’re a Cheshire independent who wants to be part of our Shop Local campaign – or you’re a hardcore fan of somewhere and think it deserves honouring – email lauren.allen@archant.co.uk with more information.