Last Saturday, Stephen
Metcalfe MP joined his constituents in South Basildon and East Thurrock for an
Easter Egg hunt with a difference.
The ‘Indie Easter hunt’,
organised by the Support for Independent Retail Campaign Group, aimed to
provide a fun and seasonal activity for local shoppers whilst simultaneously
promoting local independent businesses.
Participants were encouraged
to visit participating shops on their Easter Egg Hunt Maps, and were awarded a
sticker for every stop. When all shops had been visited the prizes of a real
chocolate egg and certificate were given to all children taking part.
Local MP Stephen Metcalfe
commented: “This was a great event and I was delighted to take part! It really
brought the community together and was enjoyed by young and old alike. It also
reminded us of the importance of our local independent retailers and I hope it
will have encouraged people in South Basildon and East Thurrock to shop locally
and support local businesses.”
Shopping locally is extremely
beneficial for South Basildon and East Thurrock. The Independent Retail
Campaign suggest that for every £1 pound spent locally, around 50-70p comes
back into the local economy. For the same £1 spent out of town or online. Only
5p circulates back into the local community.
Mr Metcalfe added: “The
positive social and economic impact of shopping locally really can’t be
underestimated. I would like to thank all of my constituents for supporting
their community retailers throughout the year and would encourage them to
continue to shop locally!”
If you would like to find
independent shops near you, please visit: http://www.independentshops.co.uk/.
If you are a local business it’s free to register to be in the directory.
