Businesses are being invited to enter a national competition to find the best small shop in the country.

Conservative MP Eleanor Laing is calling for traders in Epping Forest to enter the All-party Parliamentary Best Small Shops Competition, which is being held after a four-year hiatus.

To enter, shop owners should set out in no more than 500 words how they meet the criteria of innovation, community engagement and entrepreneurial activity.

All shortlisted candidates will be invited to a parliamentary reception at the House of Commons on February 25 when the winner will be announced.

Mrs Laing said: “This is a great opportunity for small shops in to get recognition for the brilliant work they do supporting the community and creating jobs all year round.”

Applications must be submitted by 4p.m. on January 30 here