Are you a local business who has just re-opened your doors, or a happy customer who has longed to get back to your favourite cafe, shop or restaurant? Then James wants to hear from you.
Help spread the word that Southend and Rochford are re-opening safely by taking part in his online campaign, aimed at boosting local trade and to give customers the confidence to return to their favourite eatery, pub or shop.
With the tourism, hospitality and retail sectors hit particularly hard by the pandemic, people can share which of their favourite firms are back open using the hashtag #SupportLocal.
This information will then be circulated online and on social media, in a bid to raise awareness and get more customers back supporting their local firms safely.
James Duddridge, Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East, said:
“If there’s a local café that you’re pleased to see back open, or you run a restaurant or shop in our town which is now welcoming customers again, then I want to hear from you.
“Social media can be a powerful tool, so let’s put it to good use and spread the message that both Southend and Rochford are re-opening safely, so those that can are able to come and support our local businesses.
"Throughout this pandemic, our community has been at its best when we work together, and I hope this #SupportLocal campaign will continue that trend."
Both residents and local businesses can submit their suggestions by tweeting @JamesDuddridge using #SupportLocal or by emailing [email protected] using “#SupportLocal” in the subject line.
As much detail about the firm should be included such as opening times and postcode.
Submissions will then be shared regularly on the Member of Parliament’s social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as on his website.
