If you're one of the 78 per cent of people who want to do their Christmas shopping locally this year, you're in luck - an article in The Guardian has named Wells one of the 10 best independent high streets in the UK.

The Guardian hailed the city's main shopping centre, including the High Street and 'lattice of roads that run off it' for the number of independent shops and retailers, as well as the variety of goods on offer - everything from children's clothing to handmade shoes and ceramics.

There was also a special mention for the twice-weekly market.

The other UK places included Ludlow in Shropshire, Lewes in East Sussex, Stockbridge in Hampshire, Marlborough in Wiltshire, Cardigan in Ceredigion, and Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire, Broadway in the Cotswolds and St Ives, Cornwall.

Research of 2,000 adults has found that 78 per cent think it's important to shop this festive season locally – and more than half (56 per cent) of those surveyed are doing so to put money back into the local economy.

As a result, they will buy an average of 36 per cent of their Christmas shopping locally – including food, drinks, stocking fillers and wrapping paper.

This is because 51 per cent see their local businesses as an important part of the community – with as many as 67 per cent considering a local business owner a friend.

While six in 10 are concerned about their independent retailers and 46 per cent would feel sad if a local retailer was forced to close.

More than a third (36 per cent) are prepared to spend more on their Christmas shopping, if they need to, to support their high street.

This is despite almost a quarter (24 per cent) needing to cut down on their spending compared to last year.

However, these financial worries are shared by the local businesses, as being able to afford their energy bills currently ranks as their biggest concern, a separate poll of 500 retailers revealed.

The research was commissioned by Smart Energy GB to launch its Small Business Hub, an online resource with advice and tips for small business owners.

Entrepreneur and TV star Deborah Meaden, said: "It is clear that many small businesses are concerned about making enough sales over the Christmas period and managing other pressures, such as high energy bills.

"It is therefore heartening to see that many people really do value their local shops and are willing to put their hands in their pockets to support them.

"It is important that small businesses don't suffer in silence and do look at what support is available to them.

"Energy can be one of the biggest outgoings for small businesses during the winter so taking all the steps you can to manage yours better, such as getting a smart meter, will help make a difference."

It emerged 83 per cent of retailers are worried about a challenging festive period due to the cost-of-living crisis and high energy prices.

This comes as December is the busiest trading opportunity of the year for 87 per cent and a further nine in 10 rely on a busy Christmas for long term success throughout the rest of the year.

But 54 per cent believe the current situation of rising costs has been the biggest threat to their business so far – compared to only 17 per cent who thought it was the Covid-19 pandemic.