Plenty of eye-catching outfits at 'Jumper into Christmas' late night shopping event in Berwick

‘Jumper into Christmas’ was organised by Berwick Chamber of Commerce last Thursday night to encourage people to shop local.

And there was an opportunity to collect double Christmas loyalty stickers on purchases snapped up between 4pm and 8pm.

Around 20 traders donned Christmas jumpers and businesses also offered customers drinks and nibbles. Delicious mulled wine was served at The Mule On Rouge, and there was some festive carol singing led by the Thursday Singers.

Chamber chairman Stephen Scott said: “This week’s bad weather was against the traders, but that didn’t stop the high spirits and sense of fun.

“The event also showed how most of the small independent traders are passionate about what they do and there is a growing sense with many that engaging with the local community is critical and provides a key differentiator to national chains and retail parks.”

Mr Scott also reflected on the year as a whole, and the progress in Chamber membership.

He said: “Overall, 2022 started well, with the (Covid-19) pandemic being controlled, restrictions being behind us, and a strong sense of optimism.

“Though world events soon took over and the war in Ukraine gave us an economic shock that wasn’t expected and a great deal of uncertainty with it. So the year is ending with a great deal of nervousness about 2023.

“Losing a town centre post office is a setback and 2023 will also show us what impact the new retail park will have on the town centre.

“On the positive side, some regeneration of empty units on the high street has happened – making these ready for new tenants. We also have the investment to look forward to from the Berwick Culture and Creative Zone.

“Chamber membership is healthy and continues to grow. Business owners are starting to see the benefits of the business community working together, sharing common problems and agreeing on positive changes businesses can implement. A business networking event held in November produced a lot of great ideas, which are being turned into a plan and will be the focus of the Chamber’s work over the next year or two.”