Hitchin businesses are preparing for the second lockdown in all manner of ways - including utilising social media platforms to share their message.

From Thursday, businesses labelled 'non-essential' by the government are set to shut down until December 2.

But that doesn't mean they won't be doing their level best to let customers know what they're up to.

One such Hitchin business that has used Facebook to keep in touch with their loyal base has been Maison Blanc.

Nearly 30,000 people - and counting - have seen owner Rob Weaver's post on his Maison Blanc page.

The popular Bancroft business sells 'unique and individual treasures' for your home, along with hand painted furniture, Annie Sloan Paints and much more.

Rob's heartfelt message struck a chord with shoppers as he gears up for what many are calling 'Lockdown 2.0'

In his post he said: "Another lockdown is edging upon us, and I must admit, this one will be tough.

"Literally as a one man band, I rely very heavily on Christmas sales, and I'd hope you'd agree that my Xmas decorations are a fine selection that you simply won't find elsewhere, many items selling out within a week of arriving - so the timing of this lockdown is harsh, and I will be missing a minimum of four weeks trading at what is my busiest time of the year.

"However, it is time to rise to the challenge."

Speaking to Hitchin Nub News this week, Rob admitted he had not expected so much interest on his post.

Maison Blanc is open on Wednesday, and hard-working Rob is hoping to be busy as Hitchin shoppers look to pick up an early Christmas present or two, while also backing a renowned local independent store, before lockdown comes into force.

Maison will celebrate 15 years of being in Hitchin town centre next March, Rob said, adding: "It'd be a huge shame to not make it to that milestone. Your support, as always, will be invaluable. Please share and spread the word."

For more information on the popular Maison Blanc visit their Facebook page here

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A second national lockdown is impending, but businesses in Hitchin and its surrounding areas are still providing a whole host of services for local customers.

At Hitchin Nub News, we are big supporters of local businesses, so we'd like to publish a round-up of the services being offered by companies and in and around our town during lockdown.

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