BUSINESS bosses in Wiveliscombe are trying to attract more shoppers with a series of promotions which start on Saturday (December 7).

Small Shops Saturday will see independent retailers put on a host of special offers in a bid to lure people in and get the tills ringing this Christmas.

The event is part of a plan to show off what Wiveliscombe has to offer which is different to Somerset’s other small towns.

Patrick Boyle, chairman of the 10 Parishes Business Group, said: “The main thinking behind the initiative is to promote Wiveliscombe in the short term this Saturday and in the longer term as a good, rural town to come to.

“The longer-term vision is to get better signs and improve the car parking arrangements.

“Wiveliscombe has a lot to offer but it is not very good at selling itself. Many people might not know of the wonderful things we have here.”

There will be entertainment in the Square from 9am and more at Cotleigh Brewery in the afternoon, including an open day and a horse-drawn dray.

More than a dozen retailers are embracing the initiative, from pubs to butchers and the pharmacy.

Wivey Choir and the High Park Music Group will perform and children can listen to stories in the library. There will also be a table top Christmas sale at the community centre.

Eagle-eyed shoppers will notice informative maps dotted around town directing people to what they’re looking for.

Mr Boyle said: “The signs we have are old and don’t show off what is where in the town.

“It is one of the few small towns in the country where there are no empty retail units and that is something to be proud of.

“The majority are small, independent shops and there is the national chain of the Co-op, which supports the rest of the businesses.”

Extra free parking will be available at Kingsmead School and the new doctors’ surgery on Croft Way for the occasion.