Shops are urged to take part in competition

Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage wants people to  take part in the Best Small Shops Competition.

Ms Dinenage said: '˜Â Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, bringing jobs and economic security to communities across the UK.

'We have a collection of fantastic small shops across Gosport, Lee-on -the- Solent, Stubbington and Hill Head and it would be fantastic to see them recognised in this competition.'

Judges will take into account shops' entrepreneurial spirit, ways that they have been innovative in their business and what they have done to have a lasting positive impact on their community.

The competition is open to any small shop in the United Kingdom.

Nominations shut on September 9.

A shortlist of 25 businesses will be drawn up after they close.

For more visit bestsmallshops.co.uk