Ways to support independent Hartlepool businesses in run up to Christmas as we launch Click Local campaign

As part of our Support Local campaign, The Hartlepool Mail is urging people to ‘Click Local’ and continue to shop with town traders.

Although many town businesses have been forced to close their doors due to the national lockdown, many are online or operating delivery and collection services.

It comes as our recent Big Conversation online survey about the effects of coronavirus on readers’ lives showed 35.7% of people said they were supporting local businesses more since the pandemic began.

And 68.6% agreed with the statement: "The Christmas period will be a good opportunity to support local businesses."

Janice Auton, of the Totally Locally Hartlepool business network, said there are still many ways that people can help local business despite the current lockdown.

She said: "Many Hartlepool Independents who are the lifeblood of our town are still open or have online shopping options and are also happy to deliver to your door not just in this new lockdown.

“Buying local will really makes a difference to us the businesses and easier for you the Hartlepool residents.

“They may not all have a bespoke website, but many have Facebook Pages where you can find what they offer and their contact details or simply Google what you are looking for but type in Hartlepool first.

"We will be sharing many independents who are open and are delivering. Working together supports us all in these challenging times.”

Janice said ways that people can help local businesses in the run up to Christmas are to share your favourite business Facebook pages, buy gift cards, order takeaways from independents, leave positive reviews on social media and take part in local online classes.

She also encouraged people to visit the market hall at Middleton Grange or use out of town shopping parades to support independent butchers and fruit and veg sellers.

Several non-essential shops in the shopping centre are operating a click and collect service.

They include CEX, Cash Generator, The Entertainer, JD, and H Samuel.

Support your Mail and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on Pools and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.