INDEPENDENT traders are being urged to sign up to a new loyalty card scheme in Wantage to promote shopping in the town.

So far 22 traders in the town have signed up to the system, which is expected to be launched in September.

Card holders will be rewarded with discounts and offers the more they shop at participating stores.

The scheme is being funded by Wantage Chamber of Commerce and supported by Vale of White Horse District Council.

The chamber has also made an application for grant funding from the Wantage Joint Economic Forum.

Chairman of Wantage Chamber of Commerce John Naish said: “Loyalty cards are a way of bringing all independent businesses together, and together we can keep people here in Wantage and Grove shopping locally.

“This can work, as evidenced in other towns.”

Elaine Ware, cabinet member for economic development at Vale of White Horse District Council, added: “Supporting the vitality of our market towns is a real priority for the Vale, so we are delighted to be part of the loyalty card scheme and hope that as many of the town’s independent retailers sign up and help make the loyalty card a must-have item for the people of Wantage.”

Businesses wishing to join are required to pay £50 for equipment and £10 a month for line rental for it.

Anyone interested in taking part can email economic officer Trudy Godfrey at trudy.godfrey@southandvale.

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