NEWSAGENTS across the Tyne Valley have done a sterling job in keeping communities in the know during the coronavirus pandemic and its successive lockdowns.

We asked readers of the Hexham Courant online to share their favourites to shine a light on the businesses’ work.

PEGGS, HEXHAM

Angela Scott recommend Peggs as her go to for newspapers, magazines and confectionary.

Cookes News and Peggs News have been at the heart of Hexham town centre for generations and while they were originally independent businesses, they have been working in tandem since the 1990s.

Director Ian Hunter took over Cookes, in Meal Market, back in 1994, and got the keys for Peggs, on Priestpopple, four years later.

Graeme Jardine added: “Hexham wouldn’t be the same without Peggs.”

WARK POST OFFICE AND GIFT SHOP, WARK

Lindsay Kane listed Wark Post Office as being the best newsagents.

Offering both traditional services and gifting, the business is a one stop shop for residents of the North Tyne.

BELLINGHAM NEWS AND POST OFFICE, BELLINGHAM

Heavy praise came in for Bellingham News and Post Office, managed by Kate Jameson, with customers keen to point out its wide range of goods and excellent customer service.

Louise Canney said: “Bellingham News & Post Office. Kate goes above and beyond to get all that you need from newspapers, sweets, frozen food, bread, milk etc, toys, cards, stationary, balloons, books, batteries, nappies, the list is endless. Open seven days a week, lovely staff, excellent service.”

Melissa Pick agreed: “Bellingham News & Post Office without a doubt. Goes above and beyond every time.”

Mary Reay added: “We are lucky to have Kate’s in Bellingham.”

THE PAPER SHOP AND POST OFFICE, CORBRIDGE

Kerry Bell recommended Corbridge’s paper shop for all her news needs.

Evelyn Weightman added: “Corbridge, it’s a post office, cash point and newsagent with the friendliest of friendly staff.”

CLAIRE’S NEWSAGENTS, HAYDON BRIDGE

The popular Church Street shop, which stocks a multitude of goods, has been an essential service for many during the pandemic and has recently undergone a major refurbishment.

Lynn Pearson said: “Claire’s at Haydon Bridge, brilliant service.”