July, every year, is celebrated as Independent Retailer Month, and although it has just ended this year, we still need to remember the important role smaller, local, independent retailers play in the communities they serve, the local economy they contribute to, and in the retail sector as a whole. With online sales growing, and larger out-of-town units springing up everywhere, they need the support of the local community more than ever.
If you hanker for long-ago days with a local, traditional sweet shop, where you could spend ages deciding which delights to choose, then you need to pay a visit to Sweet Dreams in Peterlee town centre.
You will certainly be spoiled for choice with their huge range of traditional treats and newer temptations, from the UK and America, as well as slush and ice cream, and sugar and gluten-free – so no-one needs to miss out! For a special treat, they will create a Sweet Tree, hamper, wrap, or sweetie jar, with all your favourites – great gifts for special occasions and anyone with a sweet tooth.
You won’t be able to fault the friendly service or the price – and you’re sure to be back for more!
47 Yoden Way, Peterlee SR8 1AS
Telephone: 07826 505369
Email: sweetdreamspeterlee.hotmail.co.uk
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Lets Run is a small, friendly, independent, family business based at the foot of the Cleveland Hills in Stokesley North Yorkshire. It has a real community feel, and is a great place for runners to meet and chat, and share stories.
The specialist running shop was opened in 2017 by Shelli Gordon and Tony Holland – both enthusiastic long-distance runners themselves – with the aim of helping both beginners and experienced runners alike, by giving the best service possible.
Shelli said: “The feedback we’ve had from the local running community is amazing - there’s nothing like this in the area.”
For Tony and Shelli, their shop was the culmination of a dream, although, sadly, Tony died unexpectedly in 2018.
The shop sells everything you need to get you going – and keep you going. Pop in for advice, whether you’re a beginner or an ultra-marathon runner; families and dogs are all very welcome – especially on a Saturday when delicious, locally-made cakes are the order of the day!
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27 College Square, Stokesley, Middlesbrough TS9 5DN
Telephone: 01642 711549
Email: info@lets-run.co.uk
Betty’s Boudoir is a small, ladies clothing boutique on the main High Street of sophisticated County Durham village Sedgefield. Although a small village, Sedgefield is a destination for shoppers and foodies, to enjoy afternoon tea, lunch, and a look around our small independent shops situated around the colourful Village Green.
Betty’s Boudoir features collections of versatile fashion, shoes and accessories to suit a range of ages, sizes and styles. From quirky one-off garments to trending prints, the small boutique covers all occasions! The local boutique also works alongside North East designers, collaborating on exclusive pieces and stocking their designs. Since opening in 2018, Betty’s Boudoir has built an outstanding reputation from the local community, as well as more than 3,000 followers across their very active and popular social media platforms.
Betty’s Boudoir will be showcasing at North East Ladies Day 2019 providing a collaborative fashion show with local designer House of Zana.
12 High Street | Sedgefield | TS21 3AR
OPEN Monday - Tuesday 10am - 5pm
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Website - COMING SOON
The success of Rebecca Wright’s hair salon has even taken her by surprise. She opened her salon in Duke Street, Darlington, less than three years ago, and has already won five awards this year alone. She started her hairdressing career as a 15-year-old Saturday girl, and achieved her dream of owning her own salon when she was aged 30.
Rebecca specialises in weddings, and has worked all over the country doing the hair for magazines and photo shoots. Opening the salon meant a lot of hard work and long hours, and, in two years, has gone from four hair sections to 12, and from one to 9 members, including a beauty room. Rebecca is passionate about what she does, and this is reflected in the success of her business. She says: “The quote I love is, ‘Find a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life’.
29 Duke Street, Darlington, DL3 7RX
Telephone: 01325 486000
Email: rebecca@rwhair.co.uk
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