Shoppers urged to show their support for Banbury businesses in the run-up to Christmas

Shoppers are being urged to show their support for Banbury businesses in the run-up to Christmas.

The town centre is starting to look like Christmas and with shops facing a tough winter, the council leader is asking people to show their support - but in a safe and social distanced manner.

It was announced that next week Banbury will be moving into tier 2 of the Government's new Covid restriction system.

Banbury Town Council Kieron Mallon said: “I think Banbury people are resilient and we will get through this. The next few months, though, will be very important – and I urge residents to do their Christmas shopping in the town.”

“The town is big enough to have everything people need, but small enough to provide a fantastic welcome and individual attention.”

This year's Christmas lights will be switched on soon, although for obvious reason due to the pandemic, the lights will be switched-on without the crowds.

Banbury’s winter film show has been enjoyed by many shoppers. The film is beamed every day from dusk until late onto the Castle Quay entrance in the Cornhill area of the Market Place.

Cllr Mallon said: “This film show is the start of Christmas in Banbury. In a few days time the traditional street lights will be switched on and we want people to know that Banbury is open for Christmas shopping.”

He said the Banbury Town Council and Banbury BID had worked together on the film show.

He added: “We put money into this tremendous lights display to attract people into the town centre and help them get that feelgood factor.”

The film combines wintery scenes with memories of Banbury’s history and is free to watch.

It lasts just over five minutes and is repeated on a loop system from 4.45pm until 10pm.

It will be shown until December 28 and will be replaced on December 29 with a New Year video.