Stroud District Council is getting behind shops and businesses in the district with its Shop Local campaign, as lockdown eases.

The campaign aims to help people to be able to shop and eat safely, and businesses to trade profitably and safely, to help restart the local economy.

The council is also calling on shoppers to tag their favourite stores and traders to inform how they are getting on, using #ShopLocal or #ShopDursley (for example) on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, and sharing SDC posts.

“Together we can help our town centres thrive again,” said Stroud District Council Leader Doina Cornell. “It’s really important that we shop and trade safely, and support businesses which are the lifeblood of the communities we live and work in.

“If you have a favourite shop or eating out spot, or know of a business going the extra mile, do let us know about it on our social media channels.”

The reintroduction of car parking charges in Stroud town centre is delayed until July 21 to support traders and shoppers, and a wide range of parking changes suggested by Stroud Town Council and Stroud and District Chamber of Trade is being adopted.

Extra efforts have been made to reopen public toilets across the district, with an enhanced cleaning regime. Stroud District Council has been also helped Stroud Town Council implement a new temporary pedestrian scheme.

Green group leader Martin Whiteside said: “Please walk or cycle to the high street rather than use a car or public transport, if you can.

“It’s better for the environment, and reduces demand on car parking spaces and on public transport. We have some brilliant and innovative businesses across our district and we want them to be able to survive and thrive.”

Liberal Democrat group leader Ken Tucker urged everyone to observe the two metre rule, as per Government advice.

“It is so important to keep your distance and stay two metres apart wherever possible,” he said. “By keeping your distance you are protecting yourself and others.

Please at this time, only use public transport if you have no other option to visit high streets, and you must observe the rules on face coverings.”

The campaign is run by Stroud District Council and part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Government’s Reopening of High Streets Fund.

Conservative Group Leader Stephen Davies added: “This has and continues to be a tough time for so many people in our district – all we ask is that shoppers support their local high streets whenever they can, by staying safe and following the guidelines.