Burnham traders: Don't forget about us! (From Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News)

Burnham traders: Don't forget about us!

5:10pm Thursday 3rd January 2013 in News By Kirsty James

SHOPPERS are being urged to keep it local in 2013 after a difficult year for traders in Burnham town centre.

Some retailers reported disappointing trading figures over the festive season and traders have urged people living in the town to shop close to home.

Rhonda Mills, owner of Sea Breeze jeweller in Victoria Street, said: “We have customers from Wells, Taunton and even Birmingham shopping here but I think some locals forget about the independent traders in Burnham.”

John Edwards, owner of fabric shop Material Needs in High Street, said: “Trade was down over Christmas. It’s a sign of the times. Burnham did not have a profitable season.

“People go to large shopping centres like Cabot Circus in Bristol. They were not here in Burnham – the high street was quiet on Boxing Day.”

Mr Edwards said his business had done well over the year compared to some, but added: “Independent traders are worst hit as large companies discount products.”

Burnham and Highbridge MP Tessa Munt and the towns’ mayor Ken Smout are among those who have urged shoppers to use local businesses.

Linda Foley, manager of The Bag Shop in High Street, said trade had not increased from the same time last year.

She added: “Customers say to me ‘I’ve been all over the place looking for this’. Often people try Taunton or Bristol but if they came to Burnham first they’d save a lot of time and money.”

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