The Watford Observer is launching a campaign to help local businesses recover from the financial impact of the coronavirus lockdown.

Many non-essential businesses across the town and surrounding areas reopened on Monday after they were shuttered three months ago by the Government due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In a bid to support these businesses, our #lovelocalbusiness campaign encourages readers to support local traders by spending money with them.

The campaign, backed by MP Dean Russell and Watford Borough Council, also encourages readers to shop at businesses which have been able to remain open during the lockdown, as many have seen a significant loss in income .

Watford Observer sales director Vicky Wright said: “I am delighted that we are running a sustained campaign outlining the importance of using local business , at what is a crucial time for so many businesses .

“We reach a huge percentage of the local population across our well established regional brands and, through a combination of combining our loyal print publications , record online audiences and market leading engagement via our social media channels, we are really confident that we can be the marketing partner of choice for local businesses during this crucial period.”

Mr Russell welcomed the campaign and called for residents to get behind local businesses and support them in a safe manner.

He said: “It is really positive that businesses are able to reopen with the appropriate safe-guarding in place and I will do everything I can to support our local businesses across the town.

“As we carefully come out of lockdown in a safe and measured way, it is important we support local businesses and shine a light on the incredible work they do as part of the fabric of our community - both economically and socially.

“I really want to support local businesses as it is a fabulous thing to do and it is really important as well. We should all come together as a community and help them.”

Watford Borough Council also welcomed the news and encouraged people to support local businesses .

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “This has been a very tough time for many local businesses in our town. As businesses based in Watford start to reopen, I would encourage people to support them so that they can remain a key part of our community for years to come .

“We have been working very closely with local businesses to make sure they can reopen whilst complying with new social distancing rules. It really is a case of ‘use it or loose it’ and we must do all we can we to help our businesses.”

Mrs Wright added: “We are really banging the drum for local businesses from all sectors including retail, hospitality and leisure and encouraging our loyal readership to show their support by shopping local. Any business which wants to be featured in our campaign, call 01923 206551 or email vicky.wright@ localiq.co.uk.”