The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop has been praised by leading business organisations for its Cumbrian Suppliers initiative...

The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop's Cumbrian Suppliers initiative has been praised by the Federation of Small Businesses and Cumbria Chamber of Commerce.

"A fantastic example of small businesses working together," declared Gary Lovatt, FSB Regional Chairman for Lancashire and Cumbria.

"A great example of what businesses can do when they work together," added Suzanne Caldwell, Head of Communications for Cumbria Chamber of Commerce.

The initiative involves more than 20 other local businesses - some just sole traders - selling their ginger-themed products in the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop and also through its website – click here to see the full list of Cumbrian Suppliers.

"High-quality, unique and award-winning, our home-grown businesses are part of the essential fabric of the county - generating wealth, creating employment and adding to the county's distinctive reputation," said Joanne Wilson of The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop.

"It's incredibly important for Cumbrian businesses to work together whenever they can, which is why we source ginger-themed products from local suppliers.

A wide range of crafts and goods are sold through the Cumbrian Suppliers initiative – from jams and relishes to sauces and chocolates to greetings cards.

Mark Whitehad of Hawkshead Relish said "We were delighted to work with The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop and to craft some exclusive culinary creations.

"Our shared love of our regional traditions and building a sustainable rural economy echoes our ethos of ensuring that the Lake District will provide a future for the next generation to maintain and enjoy."

Jo Keogh of Eden Valley"s Country Flavour said: "We produce a range of flavoured fudges including ginger - it's a great relationship between our two businesses and reflects the wider culture of food producers working together."