A CHESTER artist has received a business boost from a top retail entrepreneur.

Julie Littler, who runs The Littler Places Art, was recognised by Theo Paphitis during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was chosen by Theo himself, who retweeted to his near half a million Twitter followers.

The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has over 3,000 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK.

A selection of artist Julie Littlers work.

A selection of artist Julie Littler's work.

Business and retail entrepreneur and self-confessed shopkeeper, Theo retweeted Julie’s message and, as a result, Julie has been overwhelmed with support and orders for her happy and uplifting art.

The Littler Places Art is also profiled on the #SBS website (www.theopaphitissbs.com) that is exclusive to all Small Business Sunday winners.

Julie’s artistic influences are from when she was an assistant cruise director with Princess Cruises and she travelled to many parts of the world, including the Caribbean.

The Littler Places Art is recognised by Small Business Saturday.

The Littler Places Art is recognised by Small Business Sunday.

She paints using bright and cheerful colours in gouache. Her recent commissions include paintings of northern towns such as Warrington, Wigan, North Wales and, of course, many of Chester itself.

Julie said: ‘‘I was delighted to be recognised for my art and to win the award, joining the Small Business Sunday winners was a privilege and to receive the endorsement from Theo Paphitis at the SBS annual event in Birmingham was a fantastic opportunity."

Small business champion and Ryman Stationery, Robert Dyas and Boux Avenue chairman, Theo Paphitis, said: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK.

"My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS award from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings.

The Littler Places Art is based in Chester.

The Littler Places Art is based in Chester.

"The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Julie and The Littler Places Art every success.”

The Littler Places Art is online at www.thelittlerplaces.co.uk and in Olivia & Co gift shop (Hoole). It will soon be for sale in Chester Visitor Centre at the Town Hall, and The Woodworks Garden Centre in Mold.

People can also follow The Littler Places on Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_littler_places