A CASTLE firm is championing an innovative campaign to encourage residents to shop local.

TaxAssist Accountants, an accountancy and tax service for small businesses, opened a shop-front premises on Chester Road, Northwich, four weeks ago and is now encouraging customers and businesses to support each other during the difficult economic climate.

The company has visited premises on the same road, seven of which now proudly display a ‘Buy Local’ badge in their shop window.

TaxAssist hopes the visibility of the campaign and signs will help to send out the message that shopping in Castle is beneficial for all.

Accountant Phil Royles said: “While we are part of a network of accountants with national coverage, we are a small, local business in our own right.

“We only trade with local businesses and are very much a part of the community.

“The small businesses we have spoken to are really pleased to support this campaign by placing the stickers in their shop or office windows, which is very encouraging.

“We feel strongly about supporting local small businesses who need the right levels of assistance.”

Peter Connor, TaxAssist worker who has been in Castle recruiting support for the campaign, said he was trying to work his way to the bottom of the road and see as many people as he could.

He said: “We hope the people see the signs. It’s to try to help the business community in the hope the businesses show the sign and will get some sort of spin-off.”

Greg Bartlett, owner of G and J Bartlett jewellers whose premises is next to TaxAssist, talked of the importance of shopping locally.

He said: “It’s a way that people’s shopping habits have changed through time, to go to bigger places.

“I believe that Castle is a good area, and it’s about giving a service – by giving a good service people will come back to you. He added: “There’s no point having what every other place has, and if you don’t support your local shops they will go.”

For further information, call Phil on 01606 553566, or email taawinadmin@taxassist.co.uk.