Shop Smart and keep it local.

The Messenger this week launches its campaign to help and support Gravesham’s businesses with the full support of the council.

As the recession tightens its grip, local firms need the support of local people more than ever.

And as a business in the town we, along with Gravesham Borough Council, want to encourage you to also throw your support behind the borough’s shops, restaurants, takeaways, market stalls, estate agents, pubs, other firms and traders.

The development of the Thames Gateway means there is plenty to look forward to, with redevelopment on the riverside, work on the Heritage Quarter and Northfleet Embankment all set to take shape, together with the arrival of the high speed trains later this year.

And, although the recession is sure to dampen spirits, it won’t and shouldn’t take the sting out of Gravesham’s tail and its determination to succeed.

But to give the town a helping hand and ensure it can survive the downturn we’ve launched Shop Smart, in conjunction with Gravesham council, to encourage people to support the town wholeheartedly.

Gravesham council’s leader Cllr Mike Snelling said: “The Shop Smart campaign is all about keeping money circulating locally. The message is that by supporting local retailers and small businesses people can save themselves time and money while helping to maintain a thriving local economy.

“In times of recession, it is important to recognise that every pound spent locally goes towards a local wage packet and a local business’s viability – keeping that money turning in a local circle is vital.”