Promotional videos released to encourage Cheshire East residents to shop local

A series of promotional videos have launched to encourage residents to shop local this Christmas as part of a campaign to support high streets across Cheshire East.

The videos have been produced as part of Cheshire East Council’s ‘Say Hi to the High Street’ campaign to help encourage the borough’s residents to return safely to retailers across 11 towns, including Wilmslow, Macclesfield, Poynton and Handforth. The campaign has secured the backing of local town and parish councils, with funding provided by the European Regional Development Fund.

Activities are continuing to be held safely across the borough with many towns having already held their lights switch-on events. There are still plenty of arts and crafts events, advent window trails, pantomimes, artisan markets, live music performances and trees of light being illuminated for loved ones passed to come.

Announcing the launch, chair of Cheshire East Council’s economy and growth committee, Cllr Nick Mannion said:

 “The recent discovery of the new coronavirus variant, Omicron has created a new challenge for all of us, as restrictions have changed again. Masks are once more required to be worn when shopping and using all types of public transport, but I know that Cheshire East residents will still be determined to support local businesses safely. 

“This latest phase of the Say ‘hi’ to the High Street campaign is already proving to be a big hit, with the advertisements we have placed creating lots of extra interest for the events taking place across the borough. However, we know we need to get the message out there now to an online audience to support local and shop safely as well. These videos are a great way of doing just that.

“We can all have a happier and healthier Christmas if we shop responsibly – avoiding city crowds by using our local towns – and continue to wear face coverings, which is now a legal requirement in shops and on public transport. We should also get our Covid boosters and flu vaccinations when they are offered to us. 

“Shopping local allows the consumer to have more choice and provides a real boost for our local economy. And after what has been a difficult year, it’s also a great way to support our borough’s communities. I’d encourage you to say ‘hi’ to your high street over the festive season.”

All videos as part of the campaign have been published on the Cheshire East Council YouTube channel, with residents and businesses across the borough encouraged to share them.