With Christmas around the corner many of us are searching for that perfect gift for our loved ones, something unique and gorgeous that will bring much needed festive cheer. So we would like to hear about your favourite independent shop, whether it’s one that sources hidden treasures from makers across the world or a shopkeeper that champions home-grown talent. Whether it is Bertie’s of Bay, a heritage clothes brand reviving the nautical styles traditionally worn on the Yorkshire coastline or Angela Flanders in London which immerse itself in the heady world of perfumery, we would like your recommendations on those independent shopkeepers that stock quirky and joyful presents to fill our baskets.

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words that will be judged for the competition.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet, will win a £200 voucher to stay at a Sawday’s property – the company has more than 3,000 in the UK and Europe. The best tips will appear on the Guardian Travel website, and maybe in the paper, too.

We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.

The competition closes on 7 December at 9am

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

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