Graham has visited some of Beverley’s favourite independent shops, as nominated by the public in his Beverley and Holderness’s Favourite Independent Shops Awards 2023.
Graham visited Design Orchard, Poma, Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, the Beverley Bookshop and Kindred Spirits to present the nominees with stickers to display in their windows.
Graham started the Awards to highlight the depth and breadth of independent shops in Beverley and Holderness, and to give a small amount of support to locally owned shops in the area.
With over 400 nominations for sixty independent shops attracting over 1,700 votes, the awards clearly struck a chord with residents of Beverley and Holderness.
On a cold winter’s day in Beverley, Graham heard about the shops’ Christmas trading, and the cyclical nature of the trade in Beverley.
It’s clear that the high streets in Beverley and Holderness are much loved but need a bit of support in the current climate.
That’s why Graham is a strong backer of the Government’s support for small businesses on high streets, including 75% business rate relief to 2025 for eligible properties in a total package of £4.3 billion over the next five years.
Graham previously visited nominees in Withernsea and has posted stickers to all nominees he hasn’t had a chance to meet yet.
He looks forward to visiting more independent businesses in the near future.
Graham said: “Businesses are at the heart of our communities here in Beverley and Holderness.
“They provide employment, keep money in the community, attract tourists and most importantly, make Beverley and Holderness a fantastic place to live.
“That’s why I set up my Favourite Independent Shop awards, and I’ve really enjoyed meeting as many of them as I can.
“These can be tough times for our high streets, and my door is always open to small businesses to help see what Government and Council support they could benefit from.”
