This summer, a national campaign to encourage more people to use their local independent businesses is again being supported in East Cambridgeshire.

Together with Ely Chamber of Commerce and Ely Traders’ Association, East Cambridgeshire District Council is supporting ‘Independents’ Day’ - a business showcase event on Wednesday 3 July.

This is where independent shops and businesses can highlight their products and services through stalls on Ely Market Place, where they can distribute samples, promote special offers and raise awareness of what they have to offer to celebrate their independence.

The national event is organised by the National Skills Academy for Retail and is linked with Independent Retailer Month in July.

Councillor Tom Kerby, Chairman of the Town Centres Working Party, said: "If we are to grow and prosper as a District, we need to show how significant and strong our local economy is. For we have many local shops and businesses who offer fantastic quality products at great prices – the key is telling people about what is on their doorstep. This is what ‘Independents’ Day’ aims to do - highlight the companies which are based in East Cambridgeshire and who aspire to succeed. We have a number of companies already lined up to be on the Market Place on 3 July but there is always room for more so please get in touch if you are interested."

If any shops or business is interested in participating at the event they should contact Karen Dawson at Ely Chamber of Commerce on 01223 209808 or download a booking form from the Ely page at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk