A THRIVING local business in Hexham has reached the finals of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

Mathias Winter, which is run by local councillor Alison Smith, is an eco-friendly community hub that prioritises sustainable products and reusable packaging.

The store on Hallstile Bank opened its doors in 2018 and will celebrate five years of business on September 8, despite all the challenges that Brexit, coronavirus, and the cost of living crisis have posed.

Alison said: “I am so grateful to the people of Hexham who have supported us throughout and ensured that we are able to proudly say that we are still trading today. I love running the shop, getting to meet amazing people and being able to make new friends along the way. I am sure that having the shop also helped me to gain election to Hexham Town Council in 2021.

“The time to make conscious decisions about how we spend our hard-earned money has never been more critical and we aim to make the selection of ethical choices an easier option for those wishing to do so.”

Mathias Winter has earned a number of accolades in the past, such as Homeware Store of the Year for North England in 2021 and an SME UK Enterprise award, but Alison is perhaps most excited for the Great British Entrepreneur Awards after making the finals in the sustainability category.

She said: “I am so excited about this one as this is a real accolade and I am amazed to have got this far. I don’t imagine I will get any further than I have but I am looking forward to the atmosphere of the evening and some good food!”

The Great British Entrepreneur Awards celebrate the outstanding individuals and businesses that drive innovation, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to the growth of the UK economy.

There were around 6,000 applicants in total, with the awards set to take place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on November 20.