2 minute read
Shop local and support your High Street
Towns across the district have been working tirelessly to ensure their high streets are as safe as possible. Signage, hand sanitisers and new planters have been added to the street scene to aid physical distancing and keep everyone safe.
Steve Crowley, NHDC’s Commercial Service Director
Steve explains: “It’s simple, we have to use our local high streets otherwise we lose them! We all enjoy shopping, meeting friends for coffee, lunch in the pub, but the pandemic has made it hard for us to venture into town.
Town centres are now open, the necessary safety requirements are in place and the British spirit is alive and well in businesses up and down our high streets. I would urge residents to support their local high street during the pandemic by shopping local, whether that be in person, click and collect or online.”
Baldock
Baldock is North Hertfordshire’s oldest and most historic town and boasts one of the widest high streets in England. The Baldock Charter Market, which dates back some 800 years, operates every Wednesday, and offers an eclectic mix of fresh produce and stalls.
www.baldockeventsforum.org.uk
Royston
Royston provides a mix of rich heritage, entertainment, open green spaces and a town centre with independent shops, diverse cafes and restaurants. The town’s traditional market is open twice a week.
www.roystontown.org
Letchworth
Letchworth offers a variety of independent shops, cafes, restaurants and bars, as well as its own independent Art Deco cinema. The historic shopping arcade has something for everyone from pet grooming to zero waste food, as well as photography, haberdashery, an art gallery and more.
www.loveletchworth.com
Hitchin
Historic Hitchin is bursting with well-known chains and independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. The town has a thriving market held four times a week, selling everything from fresh produce to antiques. Culture is on offer with three theatres, two museums and an array of art galleries.
www.hitchinbasket.com
How to shop safely
• Make a pledge to support local businesses throughout 2021.
• Test yourself regularly using lateral flow tests which can be ordered online at GOV.UK
• Give yourself a treat and dine out in a local pub, café or restaurant.
• When shopping for essential goods and services abide by the physical distancing signage – remember to keep two metres apart.
• In-store wear a face covering at all times.
• Wash your hands and use hand sanitisers.
• Handle as few things as possible, only pick-up what you want to buy.
• When you’re making a purchase, use a card and don’t forget to bring your own bag.
• Avoid crowds and if there’s a queue, call back later.
• Remember if you have any Covid-19 symptoms you must self-isolate.
To find out more about the latest Covid-19 news in your area, visit www.north-herts.gov.uk/coronavirus
