by Hayley Robinson

Sittingbourne Retail Association has set up a Facebook group.

The page, which went live last week, aims to promote all the businesses which belong to the group.

Among the members are national chains such as Burton, Edinburgh Woollen Mill and Cartridge World as well independent traders such as Nickel Books, Blackbourncorr TV and Brocades Bridal Studio.

The page features shopfront pictures of each member’s business and will eventually include special offers for customers and publicise local events that individuals and families can attend in the town. So far it has received more than 50 likes.

High Street traders need to be part of the association in order to appear on the site. The cost to become a member is £10 for the year.

Andrea Don, member and owner of Nickel Books, said: “We’re hoping it will attract more members and get a bit of excitement about the town going.

“We want people to see there is something going on and that we aren’t just sitting here waiting for the regeneration to happen.”

Members meet every six to eight weeks at various locations and times within the town.

Ms Don added: “At the meetings we talk about what’s going on with the regeneration, what the plans are for the High Street, and how we can help each other. Brainstorming really.”

For more information about the group or to find out about becoming a member, email the secretary, Pam Griggs, atpamgriggs@talktalk.net