Elsie Blundell, MP for Heywood and Middleton North, praised the quality and variety of small businesses in the area after visiting Heywood Market for Small Business Saturday on December 7.
She said: “The range of shops was excellent, with lots of ideas for Christmas presents, but I was also surprised how many day-to-day items were available.
“The opening of a greengrocers has meant fresh fruit and veg is now on offer, and it is proving very popular.
“The confirmation that a cycling pop-up is returning is also good news.”
Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots campaign that highlights small business success and encourages consumers to “shop local” in their communities on the first Saturday of December each year.
Ms Blundell said: “Our high streets and markets can be vibrant success stories for business.
“They are places to try new ideas and find their feet, building connections with customers.
“Specialist shops like the haberdasher in Heywood Market can find a loyal customer base, and one place even has Hollywood stars come in for their Yorkshire Wraps.”
She believes the government is helping small businesses by “lowering business rates on the high street and making online giants pay their fair share”.
She said: “But the best thing any of us can do to help is to go and shop in our markets and high streets for Christmas.
“I had a great morning at Heywood Market.
“It’s great value, and fun, for everyone.”