Shopping locally in the run up to Christmas will be key in supporting many businesses given the pressures of increasing energy costs. This is the message from Ashburton Chamber of Trade Chair Nigel Ward and local MP Mel Stride. The pair recently met to discuss various local issues, including the success of the town’s Repair Café which hopes to take on additional facilities in early 2023 to increase their effectiveness. To date, volunteers have saved more than 3,000 items from going to landfill. But at the top of their agenda was the need to support businesses in a difficult economic climate with many households reigning in their spending.
Mel said:
“From Okehampton across to Crediton down to Chudleigh, Bovey Tracey and Ashburton, our Central Devon constituency has a wonderful variety of independent shops offering high-quality local goods and produce. Before diving online or going further afield please check out what we have on our own doorstep when doing your Christmas shopping. There are some great bargains to be had!”
Nigel added:
“It was good to catch up with Mel. Trading conditions are not easy and local businesses really need our support. I echo Mel’s message to shop local and to use local hospitality outlets – hotels, restaurants and cafés – as much as possible. Every pound spent in Ashburton’s independent businesses really does make a difference. Ashburton will also be hosting Late Night Shopping and a Christmas Market on Thursday 8th December to allow customers even more time to shop and get into the festive spirit!”.
More information about the shops, cafés and restaurants in Ashburton can be found at www.discoverashburton.info.
