THE campaign to support local businesses, launched by Newsquest Yorkshire and North-East last week, has been backed by Durham County Council, Business Durham and Visit County Durham.

The three organisations are now principal sponsors of the campaign, which offers all businesses the opportunity to have a free advert in The Northern Echo, Darlington & Stockton Times and Advertiser Series this week to help them spread their “shop local” message to as many customers as possible.

Hannah Chapman, editor of the titles, said: “We are thrilled that Durham County Council, Business Durham and Visit County Durham are backing this important campaign as so many businesses face unprecedented challenges during the coronavirus outbreak.

“Clearly since we launched Supporting Local Businesses last week, the Government health advice has changed significantly, with pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues now close, and many shops following suit.

“However a lot of businesses are finding ways to still offer home deliveries, for example, and we would urge people to take them up on this if it means them staying at home and following the latest official guidance.”

Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council said: “It’s so important that all our communities pull together to support each other at this time, including our local businesses and employers.

“That’s why we, along with our business and tourism arms Business Durham and Visit County Durham, have teamed up with The Northern Echo to support their local business campaign.

“We know that our county and region is up to the challenge and will continue to work hard with businesses, large and small, to ensure that support is available.”

Sarah Slaven, interim managing director of Business Durham, added: “We are here to listen and to help business during this extraordinarily challenging time. Our business centres like Tanfield Lea, Salvus and NETPark as well as our industrial sites remain open to enable our tenants to operate.

“Our business engagement officers are available and we will provide updates from government on the initiatives they are announcing when that information is available. We’re continuing to work with other business services and networks to provide practical help and advice.”

Michelle Gorman, managing director at Visit County Durham, said: “In these unprecedented circumstances it’s more crucial than ever to support Durham’s tourism and hospitality sector.

“Business owners are faced with the challenge of not having visitors and finding new and innovative ways of promoting their products and services.

“Our partnership with The Northern Echo offers a helping hand for many local businesses across the county.”

To take advantage of this campaign, please visit www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/freeadvert