Small businesses are the heart of our communities. We’ve seen during the coronavirus crisis how quickly some of our city’s small businesses have adapted to continue to support us all but sadly many have also been devastated by the crisis. As all shops and other businesses begin to reopen, now more than ever it’s vital for us to ‘shop local’. 

Supporting local small and independent businesses keeps 63p from every £1 in Portsmouth, is the cleaner, greener choice and will enable our city’s businesses to recover and come back stronger out of this crisis.

Local campaigner Paula Savage shines a spotlight on some of her favourite local businesses in and around Milton ward:

Bicycle Boutique – 145 Winter Road

A keen cyclist herself, Paula is a regular customer of this local bike shop. She said: “The proprietor Paul here is fantastic. His repair service is always prompt and reasonably priced and he sells a great range of bikes both new and used. He’s stayed open keeping the community cycling throughout lockdown and in fact is now looking for used bicycles to buy as he’s run out of stock! Get in touch with Paul if you’ve got any unused or discarded bicycles in your shed or garage!”

Fruit & Flower – 169 Eastney Road

This local greengrocers is Paula’s choice for fresh fruit and veg for her family. She said: “The fruit and veg here is locally sourced, reasonably priced and fantastic quality. Why go to a large supermarket when there’s such a brilliant source of fresh, quality food right here on our doorstep in Milton?”

Recognising the dedication of both of these local businesses serving the community throughout lockdown, Paula added: “As a local Milton resident I’d like to say a huge thank you to both of these shops for continuing to serve the community throughout these recent difficult months – your service and dedication are much appreciated by us all here in Milton”.

Southsea Nets – 153 Highland Road

This family run business is another of Paula’s firm favourites. She said: “I’ve been shopping here all of my life and they have a fantastic range of sewing supplies. They even have everything you need for face masks including elastic and fat quarters with more coming next week! I’m pleased to see them reopening and can’t wait to pop in for all of my sewing needs”.

On supporting local businesses, city MP Stephen Morgan added: “Small businesses are the bedrock of our economy in Portsmouth. Helping to rebuild them as we emerge from the coronavirus crisis will protect livelihoods, protect jobs and protect our communities. 

Let’s all do what we can to support local and independent so that small businesses get all the support they need to survive and thrive”.

Got another local business in the ward you’d like to shine a spotlight on? Let us know below.

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