Supporting local businesses is one of my top priorities, and Lancashire is home to many outstanding small local and independent businesses. Some of which I have had the pleasure of visiting recently like the St Johns Hospice Sustainable Superstore, and Tabletop Republic on Damside Street.

Small independent businesses represent the best of our local community, offering unique goods and services that the national brands simply can’t compete with, and I’m proud to back them.

Running a small independent business takes courage and determination. It is never easy, and along with household budgets, the cost of living crisis is hitting businesses running costs and stock prices, on top of the money coming in through the front door. As local residents, they need us now more than ever before.

That’s why I’m delighted to be launching the #LancashireLovesLocal campaign, to recognise and celebrate these amazing local businesses, and you’ll see me popping up with my board in a local business near you soon!

I will also be reaching out to businesses across the district in the coming weeks with a survey, to hear directly about the how the local economy continues to survive and thrive, and what challenges lie ahead as we slowly get back to pre-pandemic life.

I would like to hear from your business in person too, and so if you’d like me to nip down and see the great work you are doing, drop me an email at cat.smith.mp@parliament.uk.