Estate agent’s mission to keep local businesses in people’s thoughts

Ian Storey, of Storey Estates, is hosting daily Facebook Live chats with local small business owners to remind people that many are still very much open for business.

It may be more convenient to visit big supermarkets for shopping during the current coronavirus lockdown.

But this means that people are missing out on the great products and produce available from a range of local businesses across Northwich, Winsford and Knutsford.

Speaking about his Lockdown Lowdown videos, 38-year-old Ian said: “The purpose of the videos it to help keep local businesses in the minds of the public.

“These businesses may not be trading as they normally would, but are still open for business.

“I also want to give people who are watching some value, as I ask the business owners to give three top tips for viewers.

“These include things to do around the home, cooking tips or easy ways to keep fit.

“The reaction has been amazing so far, and viewers have been saying in the comments how useful the tips are.”

Ian chatting to Kate Watt, of Hartford-based soft furnishing business Lillium

The videos are live streamed on Storey Estates’ Facebook page, and such has been the popularity of them that Ian is fully booked for the coming days.

But he is more than happy to do them to benefit the local community and because he has a bit more time on his hands due to coronavirus.

“As an estate agent by trade, I can’t do any viewings or valuations at the minute as we are all in lockdown,” he added.

“This has affected us significantly, but we’re not overly concerned as we had a great first quarter of the year.

“The videos take 15 minutes to film and a little bit of time to organise.

“But they are a brilliant use of my time and are hopefully helping local businesses.

“We’ve just finished lockdown episode number 22 and have more booked in for the coming days.”

To watch the videos or to get involved, head to facebook.com/storeyestates.