With our thoughts beginning to turn to Christmas shopping, may I urge your readers to support Thame’s smaller, independent retailers this year by ‘Trying Thame First’ and purchasing as many of their gifts as possible from our great little shops?

More and more small, town centre shops are facing competition from chains in large shopping centres.

Thame’s town partnership, 21st Century Thame’s Loyalty Card scheme, with 40 local shops and services, is now offering some great deals for members.

It is a great way for more local people to support and help sustain our vibrant town centre.

To get your Thame Loyalty Card, either go into any of the participating shops (they should be displaying a sign on the door) or visit the website www.thameloyalty.co.uk/ to sign up.

SONJA FRANCIS, Thame Loyalty Card administrator, Upper High Street, Thame