Internet shopping has become big business. Fact. But with the convenience and instant gratification come potentially negative side effects. You might think you’re getting a bargain when you see the picture and description on the screen, but when it turns up it can be a duff version or a blag item. That’s why this year Christmas shopping in Sheffield is best done, at least partially, in the local shops. At least then you know your money is going into the local economy as well, rather than some random virtual account.

These are difficult times for shops. During what is usually there most profitable time of year, the footfall has dropped, people are spending less and tightening their belts as the credit crunch becomes a national obsession. Sales that are typically saved for January are already being offered on the high street. Massive savings can be found in some of the leading retailers and without a good Christmas some of them might not be around too much longer.

So, the importance of supporting your local economy and small retailers can’t be underplayed. I’ve always been a keen supporter of small indie shops; they not only offer niche (no not the bassline club night) products, but they give a bit of character to a city. Who wants a city centre to look identical to the next one because all the same shops dominate the high street? One area of Sheffield that has more independent retailers than most is the Eccleshall Road area. Here you will find small boutiques and loads of little gift shops to cater.

If you’re looking for the big name stores, you’ll undoubtedly be planning a visit to Meadowhall, where the likes of House Of Fraser and Debenhams have huge departments. You can even go and see a film at the cinema should the shopping get too much, and let’s face it even the most hardcore shoppers can get stressed out by the shopping rage that ensues at this time of year.