FOR the past 12 months The Mail has tried to celebrate and share the wide range of independent traders in Furness/

From market traders to hairdressers, from toy shops to clothing stores, and everything in-between, we have shone a spotlight on the unique offerings on our high streets.

What has been clear to see is the negativity surrounding town centres and diminishing footfall is not representative of the community's view of independent traders.

We have been awash with nominations from readers wanting to sing the praises and highlight their favourite high street seller on the pages of the newspaper.

To make sure these unique shops exist in years to come, there needs to be commitment from the community to continue using them.

Without our support these stores would simply not exist.

Money spent in shops locally goes back into the community to support workers and provide jobs.

It also helps to maintain an alternative to multi-national chain stores and supermarket brands to keep a degree of uniqueness in all of our lives.

As we move into 2020 we will continue to highlight the traders in our towns and villages.

To nominate your favourite email george.lythgoe@newsquest.co.uk.