A SPECIAL celebration has been held to celebrate the small business Covid heroes.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) launched its first ever ‘Volunteer Champions’ awards programme to recognise the amazing contribution local small business owners have made to support FSB in its work to help and promote the SME community throughout the past year.

A group of enthusiastic small business owners from across Yorkshire, the Humber and the North East, who have stepped up to support their fellow businesses during the Covid crisis, were honoured by the group.

One of those saluted - FSB North East area leader, Michael Janes - said he was delighted to have been recognised along with the many other volunteers in this region who had gone the extra mile for their fellow SMES during a very challenging year.

He said: “It was a very enjoyable event, attended by many key stakeholders, and it showed again just how many FSB members across the North East and beyond have stepped up to the plate and tried to ensure we do everything we can to help fellow business owners to get all the information, support and advice they need at this critical time.

“It is a source of real pride to see what a passionate group of volunteers we have at FSB.”

FSB’s national chairman Mike Cherry said: “Despite the most challenging of times, our volunteers, all of whom run their own small businesses, have come forward and given their time to be part of FSB, and help their local business communities.

“The approach and support offered by staff and volunteers alike is one of FSB’s key and unique strengths, and has been vital in helping small businesses and the self-employed to get through this extraordinarily difficult period. I am delighted to see our volunteer team receive a well-deserved thank you for their amazing levels of support.”