WINCHESTER shoppers should "think local" this Christmas.

That is the message from Paul Spencer, director of the city's Business Improvement District (BID).

Last week the Chronicle reported on the BID's quarterly barometer report, which said that local businesses were showing signs of resilience despite the pandemic.

But Mr Spencer has urged residents not to rest on their laurels – because the report was published before the second national lockdown.

He said: "Whilst there are Winchester businesses showing signs of resilience, clearly the new national restrictions are damaging and come at an important time for trade as we approach the festive season.

"In order to help ensure the survival of businesses we love and cherish in Winchester we all need to think local.

"There are local essential shops and services which remain open; local non-essential retailers offering click-and-collect and delivery; local hospitality offering takeaway, click-and-collect and delivery; and many other local businesses offering services which can be accessed remotely or online."

The barometer report pieced together research by John Kind, of Winchester Business School, and Sara Arnold of consultants Secret Genius.

They analysed feedback from 56 BID members in the city centre, including shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants and professional services such as accountants.