FIFERS are being urged to support local business as with the launch of the first Scotland Loves Local week.

Cowdenbeath MSP Annabelle Ewing has backed the initiative and recently spent the day visiting local businesses.

“As people and businesses across Scotland grapple with the increased cost of living, climate emergency and impact of Brexit and the pandemic, the Scotland Loves Local campaign seeks to foster Scotland’s recovery by encouraging people to support local businesses," she said.

“Every one of us can effect positive change through our individual actions, and this brilliant initiative encourages us all to do exactly that by living and loving more locally.

“Strong local communities are the bedrock of economic and environmental sustainability so, by spending in the businesses round about us, we can unlock their full potential and help to protect the jobs of family, friends and neighbours.

“Across my Cowdenbeath constituency, people can play their part by buying local, engaging with the campaign on social media and sharing how our local community is supporting the campaign."

Ms Ewing was pleased to meet up with local businesses to find out about issues they are dealing with.

“First off, I stopped by Hugh Black and Sons Ltd Butchers just off the High St to pick up some sausages for the weekend and had a great catch up with Dale, talking about the current challenges facing businesses, especially those on our High Street," she said.

“Over the last few months, there has been no doubt that Cowdenbeath High Street has been hard hit with business closures ranging from the beloved bingo hall to Iceland.

"Hopefully we have survived the worst of the closures but the experience really brings home the importance of supporting local enterprises.

“After the butchers, food was on my mind so it was off to Kassy’s Kitchenette where, alongside the chat with Jim about the struggles facing small businesses like his across the country, I was able to squeeze in a lovely cup of tea and roll on sausage!

“Scotland has a long tradition of getting out and supporting our small businesses, as they support us when we need it. Remember that small actions can have a big impact and by choosing local we can build better communities and ensure a sustainable future for Scotland.”

Scotland Loves Local Week aims to put localism front and centre in building stronger, greener, fairer communities. The campaign looks towards building a stronger future for Scotland from the ground up, with local community engagement at the heart.

The campaign highlights the critical need for everyone to choose local, particularly as Scotland’s economy continues its recovery from the pandemic and works towards achieving net zero.