THERE is an interesting coincidence of stories in the Chronicle this week.

All relate to independent businesses in Winchester city centre.

Steve Pullar has bought the lease for the premises in St Thomas Street that was previously Ginger Two/SO Winchester which went bust owing a mind-boggling half a million pounds to the Inland Revenue.

Around the corner in The Square, Harry and Sandie Whorwood have announced they are closing Woodruffs after more than 20 years, to retire to Wales.

Then, thirdly, Miff Kayum has spoken about his hopes to make a success of Kyoto Kitchen in Parchment Street following his financial problems.

Mr Kayum, better known to all as Miff, is to be congratulated in facing up to his responsibilities and paying his creditors, with the proceeds from the sale of the lease to Bangkok Brasserie.

So people going, someone arriving, someone getting off the canvas. We wish them all well.

But more important is that the readers also wish them well and support them. These independent businesses are the lifeblood of Winchester and the city is lucky to have such a relatively high number.

Better to patronise them and ensure the profits are kept and spent locally than support the chains with no deep or particular interest in the wellbeing of the city.