The tills are ringing in Axminster in the run-up to Christmas, according to Totally Locally Axminster, the organisation which promotes independent traders in the town.

Writing on the Totally Locally Axminster Facebook page, Barrie Hedges, the prime mover behind the initiative said: "Something really good is happening in Axminster.

"There is no doubt that people are making a big effort to 'shop local' in the run to Christmas.

"One indicator has been the rapid take up on our Xmas Trail loyalty cards (got yours yet?) but we are also hearing traders reporting a big surge in business and some have even used words like 'manic'.

"Coming in the wake of the gloom of the last lockdown, it really is providing a lift to a lot of worried people. So thanks to every one of you."

Mr Hedges appealed to the shoppers of Axminster to turn out in force for the town's late shopping nights – Friday, December 18th and Tuesday, December 22nd until 7.30pm.