and I are encouraging residents to support their local traders. We were in in Fareham town centre yesterday to launch our “Shop Local” and “Eat Local” campaign.

Many people were already using their local shops more during the lockdown and it’s hoped this will continue now that retailers are more widely open. A recent YouGov poll showed that 8 out of 10 consumers who had been shopping locally during the lockdown intend to continue the habit.

Our independent traders and other stores have served their local communities superbly during the lockdown, adapting what they have to offer and maintaining much-needed services as much as they could. But now is when our independent local traders need your support more than at any other time. When you shop local you are supporting a local business and local people who are employed by that business. You really are supporting your local economy and the people who live in our community.

This area has so much to offer – from boutiques to specialist stores, independent cafes and coffee shops, hairdressers and small restaurants. I encourage anyone to take time out to visit your local independent shops and outlets – you won’t regret it.

The traders are all adhering to national Government guidelines which means shoppers are required to wear a face mask and a number of food and drink retailers are passing on the cut in VAT to customers with lower prices representing even better value for money.

A number of the food outlets are also participating in the “Eat Out to Help Out” Government scheme to cut the cost of a meal by up to £10 per person from Mondays to Wednesdays until 31st August.

For further information about shopping in Fareham visit www.fareham.gov.uk/shopping

To find Fareham restaurants and food outlets participating in the Government’s ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme visit https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/eat-out-to-help-out/find-a-restaurant/

It was great to be launching the scheme with JoJo at

in West Street – delicious cake is available