A SCOTLAND Loves Local campaign poll has revealed that there is strong Christmas support for shops in the area.

With the Scottish Government lifting Level 4 measures, shoppers across Ayrshire are now being

urged to remain safe and support their local shops as coronavirus restrictions ease in the countdown to Christmas.

Non-essential shops which had to close in line with the Level 4 COVID-19 mitigation measures covering East Ayrshire and South Ayrshire, were finally allowed to reopen for trade from 6am last Friday.

It is now hoped that Ayrshire residents will consider purchasing Christmas gifts from local stores, instead of travelling further afield.

Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) Chief Officer Phil Prentice said: “There are a fantastic range of shops in Ayrshire’s local shopping areas. With the festive season vital for the survival of so many businesses, it’s never been more important to think local first.”

Scotland’s Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell added: “Money spent locally is more likely to stay in the local economy and support local jobs.”