Leighton Buzzard’s independent businesses challenge residents to shop #Local4Lent

The initiative, established by Totally Local Leighton Buzzard, will run from February 17 to April 3, as its members say to shoppers “don’t give up chocolate, beer, or luxuries - give up big shops and shop local instead!”

The project has been developed from a Twitter campaign initially launched in 2012 and introduces two new elements – first, a loyalty stamp card challenge which customers can use when they spend locally at participating businesses, and second, an online hashtag challenge - both with a chance to enter a prize draw.

Edwina Osborne, founder of Totally Locally Leighton Buzzard, said: “Just like the Totally Locally Leighton Buzzard #FiverFest campaign held in October 2020 in the town (and nationwide), #Local4Lent is about lots of local independent businesses joining together to make a noise and song and dance about our great local community - in a Covid-secure way.

“The campaign is being generously supported by local printers Rush and Warwick and local businesses including Leighton Buzzard Market have contributed with some great prizes for the prize draw.”

#Local4Lent comes at a particularly important time, as businesses face financial pressures caused by the uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown restrictions.

The team believes that spending locally supports not just local businesses but that it also generates local employment and money for local services, “creating greater wellbeing and community purpose”.

Brigit Daniels, LB market trader of new business Reasons to Season, said: “Growing up in Leighton Buzzard it is with my head held high that I can now say I run my own small business in my home town. Being part of the local business community, it is so important to help each other out. The work being done by Totally Locally Leighton Buzzard strengthens the community and makes us stronger together.”

LB First chairman Gennaro Borrelli said: “LB First is always looking to work in partnership with any individual or organisation that helps promote our local economy, town centre and community.

“I’d like to thank Totally Locally Leighton Buzzard for all their effort and hard work in putting this together.”

For details of the businesses taking part and the prize draw, visit: totallylocallyleightonbuzzard.wordpress.com/local4lent