NORTH East TV chef Stacie Stewart will be making an appearance closer to home in support of a showcase of Christmas gifts available from small businesses in the region.

Ms Stewart runs the Beehive Bakery from the Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) site at Wearfield, Sunderland, between appearances on ITV’s This Morning.

She will be providing seasonal treats and bespoke Christmas hampers at the BIC’s Christmas market on December 1 at the business support agency’s central atrium and cafe.

It’s the third year the BIC has put together a seasonal showcase of unique gifts produced by small firms that it has worked with in the region.

In addition to the Beehive Bakery, Durham-based artisans Parlour Made, which uses traditional recipes to create a range of handmade cheeses, will be at the fayre, along with Ragsdale Photography, which offers photographic portraits and training courses for photographers.

Ms Stewart said: “The BIC is a great place to grow a business and it’s fantastic that they provide opportunities at the seasonal market each year, so we’re delighted to be involved.

“As well as looking after The Beehive Bakery stall, I’m looking forward to browsing around and bagging a few stocking fillers myself.”

North East BIC business mentor Louise Hardy said: “Our seasonal market has provided a unique platform for small businesses for several years now and we’re pleased that it’s becoming an important event on the annual calendar for many local businesses.”

The fayre takes place from 4pm to 7.30pm on December 1.