A NEW Christmas themed pop-up shop has opened in Carlisle's Lanes Shopping Centre - celebrating all things naturally local.
Naturally Local, which opened on Monday November 21 next to Primark, aims to support 'naturally local' businesses during the Christmas period and beyond - with some customers even referring to the shop as 'Aladdin's Cave full of amazing Cumbrian treasures'.
The pop-up, founded by Holly Horsley, will run until Saturday (November, 26) at 4pm.
"The main aim of the business is to connect the community to local businesses that work with people and nature in mind. It also aims to encourage people to pursue their amazing natural creative passion," Holly said.
"My hope is that communities continue to support this uniqueness so that local, sustainable and ethical businesses can survive and thrive and we are not left relying upon the huge corporations who take away our natural creativity without any care for the wellbeing of people or the planet.
READ MORE: Plans for new visitor attraction near Longtown submitted
"I really feel this is needed to help protect small businesses and the beautiful natural world we all need and love," she said.
This is the first time Naturally Local has launched a Pop Up Shop, with Holly having run a successful virtual Eco-Friendly Christmas Market on Facebook for the past two years, those not able to get into the shop can also visit this page.
"Every bit of plastic you see is either repurposed or biodegradable! You will even find plantable Christmas cards, recycled wrapping paper, tape and tags in store.
"This shop is the first of its kind in Cumbria. It is beautifully unique and I am very proud of all of the businesses involved and the people of Cumbria for supporting it," Holly said.
Some of the Cumbrian Businesses involved in this year’s Christmas Pop Up Shop include: Oak and Stone Organics; Coniston Stone Crafts; Wild & Fruitful; Little Fawn and even Eco Christmas Trees.
"I am eternally grateful for all the support and encouragement I have received for Naturally Local and I really hope it continues to grow and help many small businesses in these challenging times. Let’s all work together to put meaning back into giving this Christmas," Holly added.
Every business involved has their own unique bio in the shop with photo and QR code linking to their website or socials.
There is also a gift donation box in the shop, where customers can purchase any gift large or small and pop it in the donation box at the counter to be taken to Waterstreet and St John’s Street Hostels in time for Christmas.
READ MORE: James Arthur shines a light on Carlisle women’s mental health campaign
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here