Tees Valley mayor urges residents to back small firms in Christmas shop push

This article reports on Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen’s call for residents to prioritise local independent shops and traders in the run-up to Christmas. He argues that small businesses are vital to high streets and the wider economy, and highlights how festive spending with local firms can help protect jobs and keep town centres like Yarm, Stockton and others vibrant over the busy shopping season.