INDEPENDENT businesses in Stroud are again taking part in the national Fiver Fest which starts on Saturday and will run until the end of the month.

Fifty-five businesses will be putting on special £5 offers as part of the campaign, which aims to boost the town centre.

Tony Davey, chairman of Stroud District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said: “The independent shops and businesses are what makes our town special and unique.

"We appreciate it when our community supports us, so these offers are to say thank you for that support, and to show just what great value our local businesses are, plus the difference spending £5 in them can make.”

The town's businesses have been encouraged to sign up and offer a product or service for just £5 for the duration of the event, to really drive home the message of buying locally and the impact it can have.

WSP Solicitors, of Rowcroft, Stroud are the lead sponsors for Stroud Fiver Fest.

Mr Davey added: “We are delighted to have been approached by WSP Solicitors, a well-respected business with a strong history in our town and surrounding area, to support this valuable local initiative.

"The donation that WSP Solicitors has generously made enables us to better promote Stroud Fiver Fest, with its vibrant posters and distinctive theme, without charge to those participating.

"This means that even the smallest of the independent businesses that operate from physical premises in our town, can afford to participate – so it is truly inclusive.”

Judi Bonham, managing director of WSP Solicitors said: “We are very happy to be sponsoring a fantastic event local to Stroud, which has such a positive message of supporting local and independent businesses.

"We are looking forward to seeing the impact of this Fiver Fest and more in the future.”

stroudchamber.org.uk/fiverfest