Embrace the season of goodwill on Small Business Saturday

The colourful lights are twinkling and the festive season is officially upon us, with Christmas gift shopping and social gatherings taking place over the next few weeks. 

It is a wonderful time to embrace the national Small Business Saturday (SBS) campaign in West Lancashire and ‘snow’ support for the local economy. 

SBS puts local independent shops, bars, restaurants and traders in the spotlight in the run-up to Christmas.  And to coincide with the initiative, shoppers can also benefit from FREE parking on Saturday, December 7 in Ormskirk. 

In addition to free parking on December 7, visitors in and around Ormskirk Market can also enjoy Christmas entertainment, with roaming street performers, family entertainment, sacks-full of festive treats and much more. 

Shoppers will not need to obtain a ticket from the pay & display machines in Council-controlled car parks to take part in the scheme. However, use of disabled bays will remain for up to three hours maximum, to make sure as many as possible can benefit from the festivities. 

Martin Fautley, owner of The Bagel Deli on Moor Street, said: "I am fully supportive of the SBS campaign. 

“I encourage people to shop local, not just on SBS but all year round. This is crucial to their survival, as well as our town centre.” 

Councillor Gareth Dowling, Deputy Leader of the Council and lead member for Planning and Community Safety, added: “Shopping local and supporting small independent businesses is more important than ever in this tough economic climate.  

“The free parking offer gives visitors an added incentive to head into Ormskirk and soak up the festive season, whether it is browsing the market stalls, popping into a town centre shop or enjoying a meal and seasonal drinks in a bar or restaurant.  

“We're working with our town centre businesses and particularly independent traders to see how we can best support them all year round and we hope this free parking initiative from the council for Small Business Saturday will be well received.   

“We hope West Lancashire residents will embrace Small Business Saturday on December 7.” 

Further parking information: https://www.westlancs.gov.uk/more/your-community/roads-and-travel/parking-in-ormskirk.aspx 

Please note: Two Saints Retail Park and Morrisons. Car parks are not council-run and are not included.