A Hexham councillor has pledged his support to local businesses by confirming he’ll use local printers during the upcoming council elections.

Derek Kennedy, who represents Hexham West, has vowed to use local firms during his campaign ahead of the elections taking place on May 6 and also hopes to keep money in the local economy as a result.

“Now more than ever we must do our up most to support local businesses,” said Coun. Kennedy.

“The Covid pandemic has caused huge damage to the economy and we must show leadership in supporting local tradespeople.

“Over the 18 years I have been a councillor, I have always printed my election leaflets locally and will continue to do so. I have a strong belief that we must support the local economy.”

Coun. Kennedy - who is an independent - also said that in recent weeks he’s been contacted by several residents regarding the Conservative leaflet being printed out of the region.

“A number of people have contacted me to record their astonishment that the Conservatives have printed their election leaflets in Rotherham and not with a local printer,” he added.

“This is a great disappointment, people who are putting themselves forward to be councillors should be supportive of their local economy and local businesses.”