OUR campaign to back local business has launched today to help traders in the town during a difficult year with the country dealing with coronavirus.

Love Local Business is in partnership with Worcestershire Business Central. Many businesses are on board with the campaign.

Gareth Martin, owner of Iconic in Evesham which is sponsoring the campaign said it's been up and down for local businesses recently. "It's a bit up and down, for the hairdressers its been really busy and for the beauty salon it started off slow then built up over time. But then when there's an announcement, scare factor goes out and trade drops off a bit."

"There are so many empty shops, it's such a shame for the town."

Mr Martin is optimistic about the future. "It's uncertain but you offer a great service and quality and make sure your customers are happy and hopefully we will sail through it and come out stronger at the end of it."

MP for Mid Worcestershire Nigel Huddleston said:“As we approach the winter season and nights get longer and days get colder, I know many people are starting to look forward to the holiday season. But for a lot of businesses, it marks the end of a very challenging year. Now more than ever we need to continue to support the businesses in our local community."

"This festival period, I would strongly encourage my constituents to look to their local businesses and hospitality venues for your gift ideas and for your celebratory meals and drinks out this winter. From my experience out and about in the constituency, I have been so impressed by the measures that business owners have taken to keep customers safe and how they have adapted to new regulations."

"I will be lending my support to local businesses this Christmas and my friends and family can expect to see a good selection of our fantastic local products and produce wrapped up under the tree this year.”

Other Love Local Business campaign sponsors include Crowngate Shopping Centre, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, the University of Worcester, Visit Worcester, Tom Cook Carpets, Worcester City Council, Worcester BID and Worcestershire Business Central.

To get involved, contact Dale Godliman on 01905 742372 or dale.godliman@localiq.co.uk