SMALL businesses in Northwich were given a boost on Saturday after a Weaver Vale MP took to the streets to back an annual American initiative.

MP Graham Evans visited owners in the run up to Small Business Saturday with MP Sayeeda Warsi, senior minister of state at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and minister for Faith and Communities.

Small Business Saturday started in the United States in 2010, where last year $5.5billion was spent with small businesses on this day alone.

"Small and independent businesses help to make our high streets individual and interesting,” said Mr Evans ahead of the event being held in the UK for the first time.

“It is important that we recognise the value, quality and choice which they provide and it's vital we support them.

“I want to make sure that as many of our wonderful independent and small businesses maximise the opportunities that Small Business Saturday will create and that as many shoppers as possible, shop small!"

Prime Minister David Cameron is championing the campaign along with organisations such as the Federation of Small Business, American Express, Aldermore Bank, O2 and entrepreneur James Caan.

“It was great to talk to people on the High Street on market day and to the business owners,” added Mr Evans.

“Obviously talking to people is the best way to find out what really matters to them and how they are adapting their businesses to ensure continued growth.

“As a party we want to help small and independent businesses and promoting initiatives such as Small Business Saturday is just one of the ways we can do that.”