Copeland Council is encouraging residents to shop local when non-essential businesses reopen next week.

The council launched its Shop Local: Keep it in Copeland campaign last year to promote and support local businesses.

As part of the campaign, the council has appointed Jenny Brumby as a dedicated Shop Local co-ordinator to work with businesses directly, and has launched four directories with addresses and website/social media details for thousands of Copeland’s retailers, food premises, health/beauty providers and services/tradespeople.

She said: “Now more than ever, it is vital we support our local businesses; both those who have been able to stay open and continue trading during the lockdown, and those who are looking forward to reopening from Monday onwards.

“We all know it has been an incredibly tough year for businesses, but hopefully next week’s reopening for many will mark a turning point towards brighter days."