WE asked our readers to shout out local firms ahead of Small Business Saturday on December 3. Here's what they said.

1 Spent Shells

Shelley Marie Murray-Hill nominated Spent Shells. The business sells a range of unique gifts from byproducts and various silverware. 

Products include fedoras, brooches, jewellery and gift ideas such as personalised flasks.

Spent Shells also sell customised cufflinks, candles and home decorations.

2 Dog Grooming By Jodie Waugh, Hexham

Grace Erin nominated Dog Grooming By Jodie Waugh.

Jodie has been working with animals for nearly 20 years and now works in the dog grooming industry. 

She offers a range of services including nail clipping, grooming for specialist dog breeds and bathing and brushing.

A Facebook review by Suzanne Forster said: "Can't recommend Jodie enough - our boy came home so happy and relaxed, and he looked amazing. Already booked his next visit."

Hexham Courant: Hexhamshire Brewery was a reader recommendationHexhamshire Brewery was a reader recommendation (Image: Pixabay)

3 Hexhamshire Brewery, Hexhamshire

Susan Greener nominated the 'oldest brewery in Northumberland right on our doorstep', Hexhamshire Brewery. 

It was created in 1989, when the business took over the Dipton Mill Inn in Hexhamshire.

The inn is an authentic traditional country pub, offering home-cooked food and a selection of beers.

Once established in the running of the Dipton Mill Inn, the owners looked to brew their own range of beers and sell them throughout the region, creating Hexhamshire Brewery.

4 S V Auto and Machinery, Hexham

Richard Clement voted for S V Auto and Machinery in Hexham. He said: "Excellent service and very professional. Friendly and reliable with very competitive prices. Highly recommended."

Hexham Courant: Michelle Brebner was recommended by a readerMichelle Brebner was recommended by a reader (Image: Pixabay)

5 Michelle Brebner - Seamstress, Bellingham 

Amy Riley recommended Michelle Brebner, a seamstress.

"Michelle always makes the most gorgeous curtains and blinds and Rob's upholstery skills are second to none. Their attention to detail is amazing," Amy said.

6 Cogito Books, Hexham

Sally Anne Hutt recommended independent Hexham bookstore, Cogito Books.

Since opening in 2001, the business has supplied a wide range of fiction and non-fiction to entertain both children and adults.

7 The Refill Station Ltd, Hexham

Also recommended by Sally Anne Hutt was the Refill Station.

Established in 2020, The Refill Station Ltd was born as owners David and Annie decided to embark on their self-employed journey.

They created a shop that allows customers to bring their own containers to be refilled with a great range of dried foods, confectionary treats, household cleaning, and, bath and body products. Also in-store you can find a selection of plastic-free homeware and gift cards.

8 The Village Bakery, Bellingham

Sally Anne Hutt nominated her village bakery in Bellingham.

9 Jennings Fruit and Veg, Bellingham

Sally recommended Jennings in Bellingham.

A Facebook review left by Leigh Smyth said: "I've had deliveries in the last few weeks, and every week the fruit and vegetables are of excellent quality. Thanks for the fabulous service."

10 The Country Store Bellingham

Sally also nominated The Country Store in Bellingham.