The Small Business Saturday tour bus paid a visit to Balham on Friday, as part of a 29 stop route around the UK.

On December 5, shopowners, stallholders and traders are invited to join in with Small Business Saturday, a campaign to get shoppers to think about using local businesses before multi-nationals.

The team on the tour bus was on hand to offer advice to businesses to help them make the most of the day.

In Wandsworth, demonstrations and samples will be on offer from businesses including EA Wates, Rechere Well Being, The Dessert Deli in Battersea and We Brought Beer in Balham.

Councillor Guy Senior said: "Wandsworth Council is once again delighted to be promoting Small Business Saturday as part of its annual shop local campaign.

"We believe that small businesses are the economic life-blood of our community, and it’s important that we continue to support them – not just for one day, but as often as we can.

"This year our campaign has seen more than 130 local businesses create offers, deals, giveaways and events to entice shoppers on the day.

"To help promote these great bargains, we have produced our first Shop Local Christmas Guide and created an online shop local directory on the council’s website.

"Let’s support the local businesses that continue to support our community."

The bus tour started in John O'Groats and Wandsworth was one of just two London boroughs to get a visit.

Small Business Saturday campaign director, Michelle Ovens said: "Small Business Saturday is exceptional example of collaboration and co-operation with small businesses teaming up in communities around the UK.

"The bus tour is a very visible way of enabling small businesses to engage with the campaign as we head around the UK, drumming up interest, support and enthusiasm."

Traders who want to get involved in Small Business Saturday should call 020 8871 7807 or email Open4business@Wandsworth.gov.uk.