TODAY is Small Business Saturday (SBS) - a day designed to "shine a light on local, small companies and the amazing work they do".

As part of this special event, key Salisbury figures are urging residents to ‘shop local’ in the lead up to Christmas, to support independent traders across the city.

This will be the UK's eighth annual SBS and last year the SBS Bus Tour rolled into Salisbury as part of the celebrations.

Robin McGowen, chief executive of Salisbury BID, said that today's event is a reminder that independents make the community "richer and more vibrant".

He said: "SBS has always been an event that shines a light on local, small companies and the amazing work they do. This year it has never been more important to shine that light bright."

Supporting indepedent shops and restaurants has been deemed even more important this year, as businesses have been struggling to deal with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and its impact.

Robin added: "Covid-19 has been tough for businesses across Salisbury but throughout the crisis they have really shown creativity, inventiveness and tenacity.

"Business owners have been forced to adapt to new rules and guidance, as have we all, and support from local people has been crucial in keeping them afloat."

Despite the struggle experienced by these retailers however, the two national lockdowns had boosted the nation’s love for UK small businesses.

According to research commissioned by American Express and SBS UK, 59 per cent of Brits now support local businesses more than previously.

“This crisis has brought home just how much small firms are at the heart of our communities," said Michelle Ovens, director of SBS.

“They have been there for customers and shown strength, determination and agility in coping. It’s no wonder that support for Britain’s small businesses is rocketing.

"It’s vital we continue to support small businesses as this crisis continues, which is why we are determined to make this year’s campaign the most impactful ever.”

Salisbury MP John Glen added: “Every year I have been delighted to give my support to SBS, recognising the brilliant contribution that small businesses make to the local economy here in South Wiltshire.

“This year, it is perfectly timed to coincide with coming out of lockdown and I really hope that Salisbury residents will be doing their bit to support small businesses in the run up to Christmas and beyond.”