This bank holiday weekend, Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage is encouraging constituents to #ShopLocal to support their high street.

The campaign, run by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, is looking to inspire the British public to support local, independent shops that will have been financially hit by COVID-19.

While many shops on the high streets across the country and seeing an increase in customers over recent weeks, footfall is still not back to pre-pandemic levels. Shops had to close between March and June this year to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and while they had access to a range of government grant schemes, business rates relief and employment support, many are still facing the financial consequences.

This summer Caroline has already been visiting the Gosport Constituencies small, independent shops and cafes to encourage them to enter the UK Best Small Shops Competition by September 11th.

She commented:

“Speaking to small shop owners across the constituency this summer, it is clear that they are COVID-19 secure and open for business.

“I really hope this bank holiday weekend that local residents will #ShopLocal to support our high streets and local businesses.

“We can all enjoy summer safety and back our locals if we stay alert and follow the guidance.”