I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the remarkable impact our local entrepreneurs have on our community.

We celebrated Small Business Saturday this weekend, and I find myself reflecting on the unique stories of our small businesses, each one contributing to the vibrancy and character of our area. Today, I want to share my gratitude for these local gems and shed light on the inspiring individuals behind them.

Small businesses are not just places to shop; they are the heartbeat of our community. From my Grandparents, who dedicated over 60 years to “Staffords” shop in Haslemere, the spirit of entrepreneurship runs in my blood. I extend my deepest thanks to the incredible small businesses in the new Farnham and Bordon constituency that make our community truly special.

Every purchase from a local business is an investment in our community’s prosperity. Their presence enriches our lives, and the local economy would be worse off without them. I am committed to being a strong advocate for small businesses across the constituency, and if elected as your MP, I will continue to champion their cause.

Over this weekend, I visited a mobile cafe in Greatham, the cinema in Liphook, a sports shop in Haslemere, a wine shop in Grayshott and a restaurant in Farnham. All fantastic small businesses with so much to offer local people.

I also had the pleasure of visiting The Shed in Bordon, where Dayne Cartwright of Rebels’ Quarter, runs a culinary haven with Acorns Coffee and Cake, 350 Burger, Stuff’d, Little Acorns, and G’s Diner. His dedication to our community, employing over 50 staff, including apprentices, is truly commendable.

I want to express my gratitude for the government’s positive role in supporting small businesses. Initiatives such as freezing business rates, ending the scourge of late payments, and cutting red tape, are instrumental in helping our local entrepreneurs thrive, but there is still much more to do.

Let’s continue to support our local businesses and make Small Business Saturday not just a day but a mindset. I want to encourage people to “Shop Local” as much as possible and celebrate the strength, resilience, and positivity that our small businesses bring to our community.

I am keen to meet more local businesses and entrepreneurs, and I can be contacted via [email protected]

Greg Stafford

Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Farnham and Bordon