Witney News - Shops gear up for Small Business Saturday

Shops gear up for Small Business Saturday

West Oxfordshire residents are being urged to shop locally at independent retailers, as well as being reminded that parking is free in the District throughout the year.

These messages are part of the national Small Business Saturday campaign being supported by West Oxfordshire District Council.

The campaign focuses on Saturday 6 December which, in the run up to Christmas, is one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

Cllr Richard Langridge, Cabinet Member responsible for the Local Economy said, "West Oxfordshire's towns have a fantastic range of independent shops, including award-winning businesses drawing visitors from far and wide. We have a lot to shout about and are very proud to be one of the few local authorities in the country offering free parking every day of the year. However, we are not complacent and want to take every opportunity to support local businesses which is why we are happy to support the Small Business Saturday campaign."

West Oxfordshire's retailers are keen to promote independent shops and Kim Cook of Witney Shakeshop said, “Witney is such a lovely town to visit. It has a wonderful mix of shops including many independent stores offering unique products and friendly service. Witney also has a vast choice of independent places to stop for a cuppa, a drink, or a bite to eat. On top of that there is free parking too. Why travel further when Witney absolutely has the lot!"

Chris Bayliss, Chairman of Wake up to Woodstock said, “Woodstock is very special and offers a thriving high street featuring innovative, individual and mostly owner operated, shops, bars, restaurants, services, hotels and guest houses in a unique historic setting. Romance, heritage and charm allied to the kind of service that only independent operators can offer make for an intoxicating mix!

“Wake up to Woodstock is promoting Christmas in Woodstock by encouraging residents to think local and celebrate this Christmas in the town.”

There are 2,400 parking spaces in Council-owned car parks across West Oxfordshire, as well 650 on-street parking spaces and 108 disabled spaces.

Some of West Oxfordshire's award-winning retailers and renowned businesses include Fresh Cards and Gifts in Marriotts Walk, Witney; Rosa Flowers at Wesley Walk, Witney; Patrick Strainge Butchers in Bampton; Jaffe & Neale in Chipping Norton; Huffkins tea rooms in Burford and Witney; Wesley Barrell in Witney; Hampers of Woodstock and Teddy Bears of Witney.

Retailers can tap into a wealth of resources on the Small Business Saturday website to help them take part in the day and promote their businesses. These include publicity materials and details of workshops that can either be attended in person or live-streamed digitally.

To find out more about car parks and parking in Witney, see www.westoxon.gov.uk