PENARTH business owners are urging people to avoid Black Friday “madness” tomorrow and shop local, as part of our high street campaign.

Cathy O’Doherty and Angelina Hall, owners of Glass by Design on Station Approach, Penarth, are encouraging people to “dodge city centre chaos”, and instead pop along to two handmade events held at Station Approach and the Paget Rooms.

“I’m supporting the High Street: Use It or Lose It campaign because I think people should try to shop locally,” said Mrs Hall.

“On Black Friday it’s no fun trying to find a parking space in Cardiff city centre and the shops are so busy with people jostling for bargains.”

The co-owner of Glass by Design is encouraging residents to make use of “high quality items" at the handmade art event, on Station Approach.

She said: “By supporting local businesses you can make such a difference to someone’s Christmas and can find a truly unique gift which has been made in Wales.

“At our event and the handmade market, you will be able to buy hand made items and talk directly to makers and see them in action.”

Cathy O’Doherty added: “We hope people will support the handmade art event because it will help the local area.

“Our business, and many others in Penarth, are the complete opposite to mass production.”

April Liddell, owner of Little Otter Events, who has organised the handmade market at the Paget Rooms, said: “Both of Friday’s events will have something for everyone.

“People can be rested assured that the events will be truly linked to the local area.”

Anne Morgan, owner of Anne Morgan Jewellery, on Glebe Street, added: “I’m completely in favour of the events.

“The events will have local makers there and you will discover unique handmade gifts that you won’t find elsewhere.”

The handmade art event on Station Approach, will take place between 6pm and 8pm, at the Glass by Design store.

For more information on the Paget Rooms handmade event, visit https://www.facebook.com/penarthshandmademarket/

If you have an idea on how to support our High Street: Use It or Lose It campaign, contact penarthtimes@penarthtimes.co.uk