How pleasing it is to see a family-owned local shop thriving in the midst of a recession and despite the relentless march of the supermarkets.

Sadly, Alcocks butchers in Summertown is the only one remaining where once there were nine in the area.

Summertown is lucky to have one and as Alcocks prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary with a pig roast for customers this weekend, we would echo the plea by co-owner Paul England for people to support their local shops at every opportunity.

Too many of us claim to value our local stores, only to jump in our cars and head for the nearest supermarket to do all our shopping.

There’s no point in just paying lip service to your butchers, bakers and candlestick makers.

You have to use them, if only occasionally, or you will surely lose them.