A new online directory has been launched to encourage local spending on mending.

The Royston Repairers web listing has been compiled by the Royston Freecycle group, and was launched on Saturday to coincide with Small Business Saturday, a national initiative to celebrate and support small firms.

One of the firms involved is Royston Domestic Applianaces, in Kneesworth Street.

Paul Squires, who runs the firm with his dad, Tony, said: “We repair wherever we can but, unfortunately, a lot of new products now have built-in obsolescence. A few years ago we could put in a new set of washing machine bearings and it would be good for a further three–four years.

“Now the drums are sealed we have to dispose of the whole thing when nothing is wrong apart from the noise.”

The Royston Repairers List can be found online at www.facebook.com/RoystonRepairCafe.

Royston MP Oliver Heald was out in the town on Saturday visiting several local shops, including Cream, a ladies clothing store which has been owned and run by Sue Ross for 38 years.

Mr Heald said: “I wanted to join in Small Business Saturday in my own home town. Across my constituency we have many family run businesses offering fantastic local products and services. I would encourage everyone to think about whether they are able to support a small business when they are going out to spend money in our area.”