From Hounslow's Facebook page below - is someone taking the p*ss? 'Local shops' are those that are there all year round in South St. and Twickenham Rd. If only Hounslow cared as much for South St. a conservation area where as far as Hounslow's planning enforcement team - anything goes, and where council owned commercial premises are going to have their rents raised. Sod Church St. and its 'Artisan Markets' and the mysterious'Inspiring Isleworth' who seem to be up to their necks in this farce, how many of the stalls at this market were run by local traders I wonder? "Hounslow Council once again actively supported the now-annual initiative with the Mayor of Hounslow, Councillor Sue Sampson, plus fellow councillors and Ruth Cadbury, MP for Brentford and Isleworth, giving their personal backing to local shops. The first weekend in December is traditionally known as the busiest shopping day of the year with three weeks to go to Christmas Eve.On Saturday, residents enjoyed a Christmas market at Isleworth, which included food, gift stalls and a giant Ferris wheel. Father Christmas was on hand and there was lots of activity with other local traders across the borough. Small Business Saturday, an initiative that originated from the United States, is now held annually and it has once again seen the profiles of local businesses rise as residents and visitors visited independent shops and spent time in their local High Street as they hunted for Christmas gifts.The event is also aimed at creating a more long-term boost for local businesses and the communities they are in and to encourage people to make use of their local traders and local shops throughout the year.Cllr Sampson said: “It was fantastic to see so many people out and about in the borough supporting their local businesses and the borough is looking very festive with Christmas just around the corner.“Not only is this good for trade in the run up to Christmas but it’s also a chance to see just what our local shops have to offer all year round. Small Business Saturday is a great campaign but we encourage everyone as much as possible to shop on their doorstep whenever they can.”
Vanessa Smith ● 2811d