A STREET full of independent businesses in a North Yorkshire town has had a helping hand in their bid to attract shoppers.

Retailers on Harrogate's Commercial Street are working on ways to boost trade when they reopen, with Sue Kramer, of Crown Jewellers, spearheading an awareness-raising campaign.

Sue said: "Over the last few months, we have launched a dedicated website and social media channels to showcase the wonderful and individual businesses we have on Commercial Street.

"The council has given us a new bench for shoppers to sit and rest, have cleaned the high-level road signs, and Harrogate BID has provided floral displays and a new banner. To say I'm over the moon is an understatement. We are now getting ready for reopening on April 12, and this will really help draw attention our way when we are back, open for business.”

BID chair Sara Ferguson said: "The BID's remit is to draw footfall into the town centre, and promote the fantastic mix of businesses which help make Harrogate the very special place it is."