A TYNEDALE county councillor asked the community to rally around local businesses.

Northumberland County councillor Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South, said people should celebrate the good things in local communities. 

"We have a great range of businesses across our towns and villages, not just on the front streets within the main trading areas. 

"I am finding that many more people are seeing the benefits of vibrant centres, helping to retain and hopefully increase the number and range of local jobs.

"I ask people to spend time celebrating what we have, rather than moaning about what we have lost and embrace the changes and tackle the challenges we face."

He said business opportunities are available across Tynedale and the area's schools and outdoor areas have also improved.

"I fully appreciate not all goods or services are available locally and people like to visit other areas which is encouraged, but wish to emphasise that we have a wonderful county with amazing people and a range of skills, so please look to keep business local and tweak your lifestyle to support them a bit more if you can," he added.