TODAY we launch our Love Local Business campaign once again to support traders as they try to recover from the lockdown.

As non-essential shops, hairdressers, pubs, gyms and other businesses re-open on Monday April 12, we are urging our readers to support them by spending their money with them.

Our campaign is run by the Worcester News, Malvern Gazette and Evesham Journal, in partnership with Worcestershire County Council, Worcester BID, Crowngate Shopping Centre and the University of Worcester.

Michael Purton, editor of the titles, said: “This is a crucial time for local businesses as they try to recover from the impact of the lockdown which, for many, has seen them without any income for more than three months.We are fortunate to have so many great local, independent businesses and we need our community to support them now to make sure we don’t lose them.

“In the coming weeks we will be promoting these businesses in our newspaper, on our website and our social media channels, to help spread the message that they are open and highlight why they are so valuable to this community."

Our campaign is backed by Worcestershire MPs Robin Walker, Harriett Baldwin and Nigel Huddleston.

Mr Walker, Worcester MP, said: “Worcester has fantastic independent, local shops we are proud of. But of course they have all been through a heck of a year and we now all really need to rally round and support them. They adapted and made sure they were Covid secure so they could open before.

“They now need their customers more than ever. It is important people get out, enjoy them, use them and show that they are appreciated. I think we have all realised this past year, especially when we have not been able to go to them, how valuable and special they are."

Mrs Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, added: “More and more people are getting their Covid-19 vaccinations and I urge everyone to go and get jabbed if you are invited. As the local population gets vaccinated that will mean that the economy can start to open up and we can get back to doing the things that we love.

“While some shops have been able to stay open and trading, many businesses have had to close their doors and it is now essential that we all go out and show our support by shopping in a Covid-safe way."

Mr Huddleston, MP for Mid Worcestershire, said: "I’m pleased that because of the success of the vaccine rollout and the reduction in coronavirus cases, the Prime Minister has said that we’re on track to reopen non-essential businesses on 12th April and this is the time where we really to show our support for our local businesses.

"I’m looking forward to getting out and about visiting local shops again - and I know that business owners and staff have made a tremendous effort to make shopping as safe as possible.

"I would strongly encourage local resident to think locally when shopping and show their support for the great businesses we have in the constituency.”

If you'd like your business to be involved in Love Local Business, email dale.godliman@newsquest.co.uk