Small businesses in Cheltenham and across Gloucestershire are being encouraged to join Small Business Saturday UK's online roadshow.

Arriving in Cheltenham today (November 19) for a 'virtual visit', 'The Tour' will shine a light on the area and offer an intensive programme of locally targeted online advice, workshops and mentoring.

Workshop from local businesses will be delivered, while other local experts will be on hand for one-to-one mentoring.

Interviews with local businesses will take place, including Louise Hancox Textile Artist, award-winning gifts and home store Mooch, brand consultancy and design studio Danny & Co and clothes store James of Montpellier.

With the aim to support, encourage and uplift small businesses across the country facing the challenge of a second wave of Covid-19 restrictions, The Tour will form a central part of the official countdown to Small Business Saturday on December 5.

"This year has been incredibly tough for small businesses - financially, operationally, mentally and emotionally," said Michelle Ovens, director of Small Business Saturday UK.

"This means our mission to support and celebrate small businesses across the UK becomes even more vital and ambitious. I would encourage small businesses in Cheltenham and across the South West to get involved in The Tour. As well as offering fantastic support and networking opportunities, it will also be a lot of fun."

Now in its eighth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday celebrates small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support businesses in their communities.

Due to the pandemic, this year's online roadshow will temporarily replace the iconic Small Business Saturday UK bus tour which has been running since the campaign began.