SHOP staff, hairdressers and other business owners around Highworth’s high street have joined forces to support a Shop Local campaign.

Well-known fixtures of the town’s central square are teaming up to thank supportive shoppers for their continued custom.

It's part of an effort to encourage residents to shop at independent homegrown businesses this Christmas and throughout the year.

Highworth Emporium co-owner Aga Gabrysiak said: “Having the support of local people is hugely important to our survival.

"People became more focused on the convenience of online shopping which has really taken over the retail market.

"We work really hard to attract new customers while making sure our regular customers stay with us and keep coming back.

"We feel lucky to be in Highworth because there are so many successful and award-winning businesses in this small town."

Bloomfields Fine Food, Karoliina Saunders Hair Design, MC Parland Pharmacies, Highworth Flowers, the Visit Highworth centre and Andrews Quality Meats and TT Linnet are all involved in this year's campaign

Aga added: "High streets are struggling and suffering so we organised a free raffle in 2018 with cash prizes and vouchers to reward customers for shopping local.

"Customers need to feel appreciated and this is a nice thing to do, just a little thank-you.

"We were inspired by the Visa campaign and decided to bring it back this year with more businesses involved and donating prizes.

"The moment we mentioned it on social media, the reaction was huge. People told us how great an idea it was and wanted to get involved.

"Hopefully we'll bring it back next year and keep it growing."

The top prize is £250 in cash and £150 cash is the second-best prize while the rest of the prizes will be vouchers and goodies donated by businesses from Highworth's high street.

The big draw will be during the weekend before Christmas on the Podium. A time is yet to be confirmed.

Enter for free by visiting any of the businesses involved.