Rose's Refills in Alsager has been presented with the first award by Alsager's MP, Sarah Russell, for her small business of the month initiative.

The award aims to celebrate outstanding local independent businesses across the constituency and recognise the positive impact they have local communities.

In its first month, the competition attracted 15 nominations and saw more than 1,000 votes being cast by members of the public.

Rose's Refills, in Lawton Road, was selected as the winner of the award for August after being shortlisted alongside two other local businesses, White Ribbon Boutique in Sandbach and Sam Dale & Son in Holmes Chapel.

Presenting the award, Sarah Russell MP, whose Congleton constituency includes Alsager, said: "I was so proud to present Rose's Refills with the Small Business of the Month award for August.

"Alongside running her shop, Rose is involved in local schools and community initiatives such as the upcoming Alsager One World Festival.

"It is great to see first-hand how a local business is helping people make more sustainable choices while keeping them accessible and affordable."

She added: "Small local businesses are the backbone of our local economy. They create jobs, foster communities, and provide unique services that make our towns and villages thrive.

"That is why I believe it is important that we celebrate and support them, and this award is a fantastic way for local people to recognise the businesses that make a real difference every day."

Rose's Refills is a family run, zero waste refill shop based in Alsager with a mission to reduce waste and fight climate change.

The business was praised by those who nominated it for its welcoming atmosphere, dedication to customers, and positive contribution to the local area.

Rose King, owner of Rose's Refills, said: "I was really surprised when I heard I'd been nominated for this award and delighted when I found out I'd won.

"It's coming up to 3 years since I opened Rose's Refills, and the support the Alsager and surrounding areas have given me is amazing.

"Refilling takes a bit more time and thought than popping to the supermarket, but the benefits to the environment are huge. People also think that refilling is more expensive, but I'm trying to get as close to supermarket prices as possible.

"To quote the environmental activist Anne-Marie Bonneau 'We don't need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly. Finally, I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who voted for me."

Sarah Russell MP launched the Small Business of the Month Award to shine a spotlight on the many independent businesses that contribute to the local economy and strengthen communities across the constituency.

Businesses wanting to get involved in award can nominate businesses throughout the year using the nomination form available on Sarah Russell MP's website here

To be eligible, businesses must be based within the constituency and be classed as independent.

Each month, Sarah Russell MP and her team review all the nominations and create a shortlist. Three businesses are then put forward for a public vote, allowing the community to choose the monthly winner.

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