FESTIVE shoppers are being urged to support independent retailers when the UK marks Small Business Saturday.

Essex Federation of Small Businesses and Colchester Retail Business Association are encouraging people to shop in town centre stores instead of online.

David Miles, federation chairman, said: “Small Business Saturday is a great way to show your support for independent retailers and get out shopping. Traditionally, the first Saturday in December is the biggest retail day of the year, so the challenge is on to shoppers inEssex tomake this the biggest and most successful shopping day ever.

“Independent retailers are the heart of the economy on every high street and town centre throughout Essex and without their innovative product ranges and knowledge, Christmas shopping would soon become a very dreary experience.

“Independent retailers are becoming more innovative and exciting and you can’t beat the shopping experience with them.

Shopping on a computer at your dining room table just isn’t the same.”

This year, the federation has been campaigning to Keep Trade Local. It says research shows money spent in an independent business circulates much further through the local economy than that spent in a large one.

Mr Miles added: “Not only is shopping with independent retailers much more fun, but your money helps to support your local economy and safeguard jobs and create employment in the community.”

Michelle Reynolds, chairman of Colchester Retail Business Association, said: “Smaller shops are supported by us and we would like to see as many new customers as possible, so if p e o p l e can avoid shopping online and help us locally, we would be grateful.”