A Scottish Labour MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife is urging people to visit local shops as part of their Christmas shopping.

Claire Baker visited Uptown Girl in Cowdenbeath to discuss the benefits of small businesses for our economy and communities to mark Small Business Saturday on December 1.

Small Business Saturday highlights the successes of small businesses and encourages people to shop locally.

Claire Baker said: “Across Mid Scotland and Fife we have many wonderful small businesses in our high streets and towns. They are a vital part of our communities and we can all help boost our local economy by supporting them.  

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“It was great to speak with Jean at Uptown Girl and her passion for her business really came across. Many small businesses like hers continue to face challenges as a result of Brexit, the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis, so it is more important than ever to consider shopping locally.

“With Christmas shopping well under way, I would encourage everyone to take time to visit some local small businesses to see some of the great gifts and other products they have to offer.”