Why Saturday is a big day for our small businesses

Small Business Saturday is about supporting all types of small businesses '“ online, in offices and in stores.

The Albert Road Traders Association said 37 businesses on the Portsmouth road were taking part and its chairwoman, Jenni Catlow, said she believed the grassroots campaign was an effective way of raising the profile of smaller companies.

Events are taking place and discounts are to be had across the city '“ with Portsmouth City Council supporting the day, with free parking at selected council car parks.

Jenni, who owns Tango Tea on Albert Road, said: '˜We've got 37 businesses taking part on Albert Road. Everyone is doing different deals for shoppers '“ most 10 per cent discount. Melody's is doing a £5 meal deal with selected drinks free, for example.

'˜I'm doing a quiz that people have one week left to complete where a chosen winner will get a Tango Tea £25 voucher '“ the questions are all about Albert Road.

'˜Small Business Saturday is an effective way to raise the profile of shopping locally. In the past it hasn't been brilliant but Portsmouth City Council has really got behind us. I'm hoping friends and colleagues will come down and enjoy the day.'

The council is listing offers on its Small Business Facebook event page, which can be accessed via its own Facebook page. Other deals include a free brownie with a takeaway coffee from The Southsea Deli and iHelp Gadget Repairs is offering 20 per cent off its services. There's also deals at Castle Road and Palmerston Road.

Councillor Ben Dowling, the council's cabinet member for planning, regeneration and economic development, said: '˜Small businesses are the lifeblood of our neighbourhoods.

'˜They add character and colour to local shopping areas and we need to encourage them as much as possible. That's why we're offering free use of car parks and helping to promote what's happening on the day.'

Free parking can be accessed at Wootton Street and London Road car parks in Cosham, Stubbington Avenue car park in North End, Ashby Place car park in Southsea and Clarence Street car park in the city centre.