Support our Independents Day

You've heard of American Independence Day – now here is Leicestershire's version.

The Leicester Mercury is launching Independents Day on Saturday, March 14, to help local shops survive the recession.

We're asking people to spend the day buying from independent businesses – farm shops, markets, greengrocers and butchers to convenience stores, gift shops and tearooms – instead of the big chains.

Readers can pledge their support by telling us where they will be spending their money on March 14 – and independent shops can sign up to back it.

We will also send out posters to shopkeepers so they can advertise the big day for local business.

Leicestershire Food Links chairman Sandra Herbert said: "I think Independents Day is a great idea. I have been encouraging all our members to get their message across.

"It's surprising how many people don't know what's on their doorstep."

Councils, business leaders, shops and customers have backed the day – and are urging others to follow.

Leicester City Council leader Ross Willmott said: "Shopping locally keeps people in jobs and also keeps the money in the local economy.

"I always use the corner shop and I think everyone should make an effort to do the same because they will miss them if they go."

Councillor David Parsons, leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: "I'm proud to back this campaign. Local shops and traders help make this county a distinctive place to live. You can't put a price on their knowledge and the range of quality."

Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce has given its support, along with traders' organisations in the county's market towns.

Melton Town Centre manager Lisa Hammond said: "Melton is backing this campaign. It coincides with our Think Melton, Shop Melton campaign. People should start supporting local stores."

Market Harborough development officer Chris Sewart said: "The cause of independent shops is crucial in Market Harborough. There are a lot of niche shops. It's important to support something like this."

Paul Cramphorn, shop manager at Fife Fine Foods, in Cheapside, Leicester, said: "Anything to do with local businesses and encouraging people to buy local is a good thing."

Virginia Toon, from Newtown Linford, has become one of the first readers to pledge her support for the campaign as she fears big corporate chains muscling in on communities.

She plans to shop at Cooks Farm Shop and the Post Office general store and tea rooms, in the village.

She said: "I would be happy to support my local shops on March 14. I am a huge fan of supporting local producers and farm shops."

The Mercury's Support Your County campaign aims to help Leicestershire's traders and producers.

We want our readers to back the campaign and use our markets, small stores and farm shops more frequently.

How to do your bit

To support Independents Day, e-mail your name, address and the shops you plan to support.

Your name will be added to a roll of honour on our website.

E-mail by clicking here