EVESHAM traders are set to get a much needed boost later this month when the town's brand new loyalty card is launched.

The scheme , which has been set up by Real Evesham, will encourage people to shop in the town by rewarding them with cash and prizes at the end of each month.

It is set to follow a similar pattern to the successful card initiative in Pershore and already 70 stores are taking part.

Kim Dunn, chairman of Real Evesham and owner of skate and scooter shop Bonk in the town, said she was looking forward to the official launch of the scheme at the Morris festival on June 21 and 22.

"Shoppers pick up a card from one of the 70 shops on board," said Ms Dunn. "They have to get ten stamps. There will be a cash prize of £25 a month for the winner and stores will also donate prizes as well.

"All the shops have there own sticker with their own individual number so people using the cards must shop in at least five different shops to get the ten stamps. Then each month the winner the prize will be presented by a different shop.

"I am excited about it, it's a real positive that has come out of negative and the fact we are working together for the good of Evesham we can get it good again.

"It's going to be a long slog but we are going to do it. These traders are passionate about their town so it's good for everybody."

As part of the scheme some of the money raised from each shopper will go towards the Bell Tower Appeal, which needs to raise £500,000 for the repair and conservation of the 16th century building.

Dave Purser, owner of the Master Butcher in Avon Street and a member of Real Evesham, was behind the idea of the loyalty card.

He said: "We had the YES scheme during the bridge closure, but when that finished I said we need to do something else.

"At the time I didn't think we made enough of the heritage of the town. We came up with the idea to meet Fiona Abbott who organises the card in Pershore. We have copied their concept.

"We thought we could also raise money for the bell tower at the same time.

"I am really pleased with it. It will be a good boost for local businesses."

Any traders wishing to take part should contact Mr Purser on dpurser@live.co.uk or Ms Dunn at Bonk bonkclothing@hotmail.co.uk.