THE Forest of Dean District Council has launched a new campaign, in a bid to encourage more support for local independent businesses.

The ‘Love Your High Street’ campaign began on Monday, November 9, to begin six weeks of celebrating independent businesses that make the high streets of Cinderford, Coleford, Lydney and Newent special.

Shoppers in the Forest of Dean also have the chance to win one of three hampers filled with locally sourced gifts and products, worth £500 in total.

Cllr Johnathan Lane, Cabinet Member for Economy at Forest of Dean District Council, said: “Our town centres are home to a fantastic range of independent businesses, and Love Your High Street is all about encouraging people to support them during the busy Christmas shopping period.

“Spending locally makes a real difference. It helps support local jobs, keeps money within our communities and contributes to thriving, distinctive town centres.

“I hope residents and visitors will get involved, explore our high streets and support some of the brilliant independent businesses we have here in the Forest of Dean.”

Shoppers can get involved by picking up a Love Your High Street reward card from participating businesses. Every purchase you make of £5 or more, you get a sticker. Six stickers will see you entered into a prize draw.

Participating businesses will display a Love Your High Street campaign poster, making them easy to spot.

Completed reward cards need to be returned by the end of the campaign, on Friday, December 18.

Three winners will be selected at random, with each receiving a hamper of locally sourced gifts and products.

You can find out more details including how to take part, participating businesses, where to return completed cards and the competition terms and conditions, by visiting the Love Your High Street webpage.