SMITHILLS greengrocers A Small Good Thing prides itself on being organic, ethical and waste free.

The shop on Church Road, is co-owned by friends Emily Cooke and Lisa Forrest.

Ms Cooke said they decided to launch their own store after becoming disillusioned shopping in big supermarkets.

She said: "I got really fed up of going to the supermarket and trying to make the right choice.

"I didn't want all the waste at home and I don't think businesses take enough responsibility for the waste that they create.

"Me and Lisa got quite stressed about the impact of things when we were shopping so we just decided to create this instead.

"It's really hard when you're working with food to make the most ethical choices but we're trying to reduce plastic waste, reduce food waste and encourage local growers."

Inside the store, there is a range of fresh, organic fruit and vegetables, as well as dispensers containing dried ingredients such as lentils.

Customers are encouraged to bring their own containers along to fill up from the dispensers in order to further reduce waste.

As well as the ethical and environmental side of things, Ms Cooke also believes the local aspect makes the store stand out from supermarkets.

She added: "I think it's massively important.

"The local and small business aspect of the shop means that we really get to know our customers; we know what people like and you don't have that relationship with a supermarket.

"You can build up a really good relationship with the shop and know exactly where your food is coming from.

"It was really nice in the run up to Christmas to swap recipes and things like that."

The store is not officially vegan as eggs are sold in store, but vegan friendly soups are always available and if you are trying 'Veganuary' the owners will be more than happy to help with ideas.

Ms Cooke said: "We're not a vegan shop, we have a lot of vegan stuff but for us it's just about good, simple food."