READERS of The Northern Echo in and around Darlington and surrounding towns are well aware of the problems facing the high streets.

Major retailers have recently closed stores causing a major impact on shoppers. Many of these firms, like Marks and Spencer, have the financial clout to absorb closures. Owners, like Sir Phillip Green, continue to live the high life.

But what about the many small, privately owned business in towns like Darlington? How can they survive?

Simply by the likes of you and me making slight changes to our shopping habits.

I buy my Cheese from The Cheese and Wine shop in Clarks Yard (great feta).

I have discovered the fantastic coffee shop Echo 3 opposite (goodbye Costa).

The historic covered market and the many other small shops around the town provide superb quality products but their owners struggle to make a living.

I urge you all to stop and think while out shopping.

Give Costa a miss once in a while. Refuse that plastic-wrapped, bland supermarket cheese. Buy your meat from a local butcher and try a loaf of artisan bread now and again.

Yes, money is tight, many of us struggle financially but if you can once-in-a-while support your local small business, you will not be disappointed.

John Walker, Newton Aycliffe