Local businesses have come out in support of a campaign that encourages residents to shop and eat locally in the run up to Christmas.
The District Council recently launched its annual Love Local initiative, urging people to back the local retail and hospitality sectors in Rother during the festive period.
The Council says people can pick up some great gifts – and enjoy cafes, restaurants, pubs, and bars in the district when they are out Christmas shopping. The authority points out that loving local not only supports the economy but also helps the environment with reduced travel.
Many Bexhill businesses have already come out to show their support for the campaign, including County Clothes, SBS Consumables, and Syrian Lounge.
Jack Stevenson of County Clothes in Western Road, said: “In the run up to Christmas it’s really important to check out local small businesses and what we have to offer. Most people are amazed at our range of stock”
Keith Geraghty of SBS Consumables in London Road, said: “The key message for me is that when you support local businesses it makes a real difference. You’re also more likely to be thanked and appreciated by a local business than if you shop online.”
Khalad Sankiri of Syrian Lounge in Western Road, said: “Meeting friends and catching up in the run up to Christmas is a great opportunity to try out local restaurants like Syrian Lounge. We are looking forward to seeing old and new customers throughout December – open as usual with great food and a friendly welcome.”
Cllr Christine Bayliss, Deputy Leader and Lead Cllr for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “It’s great to see local shops and restaurants showing their support for our campaign.
“For Several years, the District Council has promoted loving local in the run up to Christmas to give local businesses across Rother a boost. Considering what they’ve gone through over the last few years, including Covid restrictions, the change in shopping habits, cost-of-living crisis and soaring energy bills, it’s even more important for us to shop, eat and support local if we can.”
To encourage people to visit their local high street, the Council is also waiving parking charges in some of its off-street car parks on selected dates. The dates have been agreed with Chambers of Commerce and other partners. Full details can be found on car parking page
Published: 6th December 2023
