RESIDENTS are being urged to rally round struggling businesses across the district and do their Christmas shopping at independent shops.

It comes as part of a drive to help smaller businesses missing out on the busy pre-Christmas period due to the national lockdown.

Braintree Council has launched a campaign encouraging residents to ‘shop local’ online wherever possible in an effort to boost trade.

With coronavirus cases growing across the district, it remains unclear when shops will reopen.

Council economic development boss Tom Cunningham said: “For many businesses, Christmas is their busiest time so with the second lockdown now in place, it’s important we support them as much as we can, and one way is to shop local with them online.

“Shopping local means money is kept in the local economy – supporting jobs and local families, so this year when you are thinking about Christmas presents for friends and family, browse and explore some of the wonderful businesses we do have across the district and what they are offering online.

“These businesses are the heart of our towns and communities and we need them to still be there for us in the future.

“They need our support now more than ever.

Gazette:

“The pound in our pocket has never been more valuable. ”

It comes after news that all Christmas light switch-on events across the district will take place virtually this year.

A host of festive markets, attractions and other seasonal events have all been cancelled due to the pandemic, a move which is likely to hit visitor numbers to town centres in the run-up to Christmas.

The shop local campaign promotes independent shops and businesses who are continuing to trade online.

Among those backing the initiative is Richard Sambridge, owner of the Natural Way in Braintree High Street.

He said, “I support the council in encouraging people to shop locally this Christmas in and around Braintree, because it showcases how many good independent businesses there are in the district who are doing everything possible to keep going.”

Any business which wants to take part in the 'Shop Local Online' can email tourism@braintree.gov.uk.

Town's new virtual street market

BUSINESS bosses in Witham have set up their own virtual street market in the town.

It has been launched on Facebook to promote small and independent firms.

Witham Chamber of Trade is helping run the virtual event and chairman Tina Townsend hopes it will encourage residents to turn to independent retailers for their Christmas shopping.

She said: “When you buy from a small business you are helping to heat their house, clothe their children and feed their families. But when you buy from a big retailer you’re only helping line the pockets of shareholders.

“It’s always important to support our local businesses but obviously it’s even more important this year because of the pandemic. It’s hard for everyone at the moment but just buying something from a small business can make a lot of difference.”