People are being encouraged to go out and support local shops, restaurants and other Southport businesses in the run-up to Christmas, in a safe way.


Southport BID is looking forward to seeing a number of local firms reopening their doors next week under the new Tier 2 restrictions after the national lockdown ends on 2 December.


The BID has recently created the Southport Nutcracker Trail with 12 figures situated around the town centre to make venturing into the town centre an even more pleasant experience for people.


People who post pictures on social media along with the hashtag #southportnutcrackers are in with a chance of winning a £50 Southport Gift Card.


Shoppers will also be able to enjoy seeing Christmas decorations the BID has supplied throughout the town centre, including the tree in the Town Hall Gardens which creates stunning LED light displays and the features on the roundabouts at either end of Lord Street.

Southport BID has also launched the new Southport Gift Card, which is accepted in over 70 outlets in our town, as a way of encouraging people to support local businesses.


Southport BID CEO Rachel Fitzgerald said: “We are pleased to see so many shops, restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, hotels, bars and others in Southport being able to reopen in Tier 2 restrictions after the end of the national lockdown.


“Local businesses have made huge efforts to make their premises Covid secure and to give their staff excellent training so that people can feel confident in doing their Christmas shopping safely.


“Local retailers, restaurateurs and other business owners are doing everything to keep their customers safe and stores secure.


“I would like to ask people in Southport to play your part by please shopping responsibly.”


Southport has placed into the less restrictive Tier 2 Covid restrictions after people worked hard to help bring down Coronavirus cases in the area in recent weeks.

While Covid figures are falling, people are still being urged to remain cautious with any increase in cases the last thing anyone wants to see.


Rachel Fitzgerald said: “I would like to ask customers to please keep following all essential hygiene measures such as cleaning their hands, covering their faces when necessary, and making space for others.


“Southport’s shops, restaurants and others are looking forward to welcoming you all back.


“Local businesses are safe and open so you can enjoy Christmas shopping safely.
“Retailers in the UK have spent hundreds of millions of pounds making their premises safe for both customers and staff and are following all Government safety guidance.


“This is something Southport BID has worked on with local firms in recent months.
“Business owners have prepared well, putting in place screens, social distancing measures, additional cleaning, and other measures too.


“Local people have an important part to play too.


“Customers and colleagues should wear face coverings in stores, maintain social distancing and follow all necessary hygiene measures. They must follow safety advice inside and outside shops.


“Try to avoid peak times where possible.


“Please queue considerately, and respect our hardworking shop and restaurant workers.


“This year, more than ever, please start your Christmas shopping now, don't leave it all until the last minute!


“Everyone is doing their best, so remember to be patient and remember it’s Christmas for retail colleagues too.


“Please support our local businesses in Southport this Christmas, and make sure you keep yourselves and others safe.”