SOUTH Ayrshire Council is encouraging people to support local businesses by shopping in the region this festive season, with the help of the Scotland Loves Local gift card.

More than 200 local businesses are signed up, including bespoke independent retailers, cafes, leisure facilities and restaurants.

The gift card is now available as a digital e-card, meaning that it can be emailed directly to recipients, who can then add the card to digital wallets using the Love Local app.

Supported by the Scottish Government, the Scotland Loves Local national initiative promotes everything local, helping to put towns back on the map.

Councillor Bob Pollock, portfolio holder for economic development, said: “It’s that time of year again when we start to think what to buy our loved ones for Christmas.

"In an age where everything is available at the touch of a button, it can be difficult to find a gift that family and friends don’t already have, so the South Ayrshire gift card is an ideal choice.

“There are so many unique businesses across South Ayrshire, offering gifts and experiences that you can’t buy in the larger towns and cities, which makes it even more special.

"By shopping local, we’re continuing to support our local businesses and helping our economy to thrive.

"To make things even easier, the gift card can be purchased as a digital e-card, so the tech-savvy shoppers won’t forget the card when out and about.”

You can buy a card and view the full list of participating businesses at townandcitygiftcards.com/product/south-ayrshire-gift-card.