Hexham MP Guy Opperman recently embarked on a tour of Tynedale and Ponteland, visiting the area's small businesses ahead of the Spring Budget.

The budget is due to be announced by chancellor of the exchequer Jeremy Hunt MP on March 6.

During his tour, Mr Opperman paid a visit to Alonya 'Olena' Holdovych, a Ukrainian refugee who now calls Northumberland her home.

Ms Holdovych, who had arrived in the UK via the Homes for Ukraine Scheme in 2022, runs the bespoke soft toy business My Oh My in Corbridge.

The MP presented a small award to Ms Holdovych to showcase her hand-crafted creations.

Mr Opperman said: "Alonya's story is nothing short of remarkable.

"The bravery and courage she has shown to not only escape the war in Ukraine, but to then fully immerse herself in the local community in Corbridge by setting up My Oh My deserves high praise.

"With Valentine's Day and Easter just around the corner, I would encourage everyone to visit and take advantage of the high-quality handcrafted soft toys on offer."

Hexham Courant: The Fountain Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Bellingham also received a visit The Fountain Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Bellingham also received a visit (Image: Guy Opperman MP)

Mr Opperman also visited several rural businesses in Tynedale, where his stops included a visit to the Fountain Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Bellingham.

This business was recognised with an award by the MP, who ran an online survey asking people in Tynedale and Ponteland to vote for their favourite small businesses.

The MP said: "It is genuinely no wonder the Fountain Cottage has been voted the best cafe in Northumberland for three years running.

"The team are simply fantastic.

"You always know you will get service with a smile, followed by top quality, locally sourced food.

"I want to pay tribute to everyone at the B&B for working around the clock to do so much for the local community in Bellingham."

READ MORE: Surge in ballot entries for 2024 AJ Bell Great North Run

Mr Opperman highlighted the budget's potential significance to small businesses.

He said: "At the Autumn Budget just before Christmas, I was delighted to see the Government continue to support small businesses with a support package worth £4.3 billion, including a freeze to the business rates multiplier, protecting around 90 per cent of business rates payers.

"I will continue to bang the drum for small businesses in Tynedale and Ponteland, particularly in the run up to the Spring Budget next month, where I expect the Chancellor to build on the measures announced last year to further support pubs, restaurants, and shops and allow them to prosper."