Backing the Love Local campaign, the leader of Southampton City Council, Councillor Christopher Hammond, said: “Our independent businesses and the high street are cherished places for many of us.

"One of the things I’m sure we’re all looking forward to is the opportunity to visit our favourite local shops and cafes - when it is safe to do so.

"But to give us that opportunity, it’s important we find ways to support those local businesses throughout lockdown.

"The Love Local campaign gives all of us the chance to support those businesses directly and ensure their survival throughout a difficult trading year.

"So, if like me, you love some of your local shops, get behind them now.

"Buy online from them if you can, rather than just the national chain retailers.

"Hopefully it won’t be too long before we can visit them again.”

HOW READERS CAN HELP
HOW readers can get involved in Love Local: We are running a weekly competition for six weeks for readers to win £25 cash to spend supporting their local businesses. All you have to do is send us a picture of them Loving Local businesses for a chance to win – click and collect, takeaways, home delivery, favourite coffee shop take away or using e-commerce from their favourite store.