CHRISTMAS can be a tough time for families struggling financially, with lots of expectations to spend big – and the problems they face have only been exacerbated by additional financial challenges caused by the coronavirus crisis. But one Hexham business made sure everyone had some festive cheer at the end of a year when it was sorely needed. The Hexham Courant launched a campaign in April with the aim of celebrating businesses going above and beyond, identifying their special efforts by crowing them Trader of the Week. This week, the winners are the team at Mole Country Stores on the Corbridge Road in Hexham, thanks to their offer of free Christmas trees to families who haven’t been able to purchase one.