17 of the independent businesses Gazette readers have been supporting in Northumberland

From the people working to create special gifts, to those providing a sweet treat at the end of a difficult day.

You came in your dozens to shine a spotlight on the traders across the county and share why you have been using their services as we all spend more time at home.

As our #SupportLocal campaign continues, we have rounded up some of your nominations into a handy list.

Here are some of your suggestions from the Northumberland Gazette Facebook page – along with your stories of why you love these businesses and what they have done for you during a difficult year.

The Star Inn, Harbottle

Rowena Shotton said: “A very special thank you for keeping the residents of Harbottle and surrounding areas supplied since the lockdown began. We used them until we moved away last year. Very grateful to them!”

The Farm Bakery Shops, Alnwick

Ingrid Hardy said: “They have some excellent products and their lovely array of cakes and tray bakes have cheered my kids up over lockdown. Well done guys!”

The Galley Amble & The Galley Alnwick

Dawn Robinson said: “Beautiful, homemade fresh food, fantastic service, great staff, all very friendly and go above and beyond.”

The Grateful Bread, Hexham

Kathryn Davidson Armstrong said: Only just opened before the pandemic hit and have continued to flourish during this awful year. Amazing small batch bread for the town, always a huge queue on a Saturday and you have to be quick for a cinnamon bun. A real asset to Hexham.”

The Bonny Hoose Company, Alnwick

Lyn Douglas said: “Dawn and Jacqui have never lost their vision. The addition of Frenchic paint has kept many of us sane during this lockdown. Well done girls.”

R Green & Son, Longframlington

Les McLean said: “First class meat and sausages, home cured bacon and spot on pies all year round.”

Melts By The Shore

Stacey Potter said: “Beautiful wax melts and carpet freshners handmade by Shanine, absolutely fantastic smells.”

R Martins Butchers, Morpeth

Angela Elliot said: “Free and friendly delivery. And the best pies ever. I could go on but I'll leave it there!”

Ginger Fox Gifts, Alnwick

Vicky Norman said: “Absolutely amazing service, always goes above and beyond. Not sure how I would have managed over the last few months without you! Thank you.”

The Tray Bake Fairy, Wooler

Sammy Reed said: “Delivery to doorstep.”

Rothbury Butchers, Jennings Fruit and Veg, Hexham, Purple Haze Flowers, Hexham, The Chocolate Spa, Alnwick, Cowell’s Garden Centre

All nominated by Rachel Robson.

M & H Bakes, Blyth

Lisa Jane Bell said: Since I now live away from Northumberland they have enabled me to still send treats to my granddaughter and godchildren thought out lockdown.”

Northumbrian Free Range Eggs Ltd

Jemma Swinney said: “They have been brilliant and I continue to get eggs and other delicious things as their local ranges expand.”

The dramatic events of the pandemic are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive.

We are now more reliant than ever on your support through buying our newspaper.

If you can, please pick up a copy of the Northumberland Gazette when you are at the shops.

Thank you.