Small businesses give towns a 'sense of pride'

Emma Kemsley (R) owns a small boutique in Lydney and said shoppers enjoy the personal touch

Four market towns are promoting independent traders in the run up to a nationwide event celebrating small businesses.

Lydney, Coleford, Cinderford and Newent in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, are coordinating their Christmas lights later in support of local retailers.

This year's Small Business Saturday is on 6 December, a day when shoppers are encouraged spend "small" to help independent businesses.

Catherine Lines, who has taken up a new role of market towns officer at Forest of Dean District Council and the four town councils, said: "We are hoping to invest in markets and local events to bring communities back to the high street."

"Shopping local is crucial for stimulating the economy, creating jobs, and fostering community engagement, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and vibrant local environment," she added.

Emma Kemsley, the owner of The Dressing Room in Lydney, said independent traders give "a sense of pride" to the town and shoppers appreciated the personal touch.

"I don't think that's shouted enough by local authorities or appreciated enough," she said.

"And the fact we're not putting pressure on roads by people having to travel to Cribbs [Causeway}, they can keep it much more localised," Emma said.

"The new role is such an opportunity to bring new ideas to the council teams, work collectively as market towns across the Forest to celebrate the unique community we live in," Ms Lines added.

The Christmas lights switch-on is taking place in the four market towns from 17:00 GMT.