Support your community by shopping at your local stores this Christmas - that's the message from the leader of Castle Point Council.

Dave Wells is urging borough residents to do something positive for their community this year, by shopping locally.

"Unless local shops are supported by local people, they will struggle," Mr Wells said.

"For the past few years the council has been trying to improve shopping parades by refurbishing pavements and precincts, but we need to be in a partnership with everyone in the community.

"Local shops provide a service for residents all year round which is especially important to the elderly."

Mr Wells pointed out that an area having its own shops also helped build community spirit.

Published Wednesday October 23, 2002

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