THERE are so many ways that people might define who they are – gender, age, race, occupation, marital status, star sign… There are many who define themselves by the city they’re from – certainly those from the bigger cities like London, Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester, and Birmingham.

There’s a lot to be said for seeing ourselves as ‘global citizens’, but it’s possible to feel that and to also recognise where we’re from, as the two things aren’t mutually exclusive.

Do Salisbury people feel defined by the city they’re from? I definitely feel that as an aspect of myself, and so I imagine that there are others who do too – although it’s more of a quiet pride, rather than some sort of whooping declaration worthy of a sporting event.

What I’m increasingly worried about is that this dignified, subtle, respectable pride which may be there for many of us is way too quiet. So quiet that it is not exhibited.

There has been a lot said about Salisbury’s good points recently – the cathedral, Stonehenge, Old Sarum, etc, etc. We all know that we have the history all sewn up, and while it is a lot to be proud of, there are other parts of Salisbury which are neglected, and these are also vital for the future of our city.

Many welcome the arrival of Homesense, and appreciate Waitrose, Smiths and Boots, but what if Salisbury was all chain stores?

Useful in some ways, yes. Identikit to so many other cities, also yes.

Independent businesses are the ones which build character, and yet another – The Salisbury Chocolate Bar and Patisserie – has just closed down.

Lots of Salisbury people head to Bath or Southampton for their shopping needs, and Bristol or Bournemouth for their entertainment, and the money being spent elsewhere is not strengthening our local economy.

Plus although tourists bring a lot of revenue, there’s not really anything here at the moment to keep them coming back once they’ve seen our historic treasures.

It’s time to support what’s left of our local businesses before it’s too late – visit salisburyindies.co.uk, which lists many of them.