AN online festive advert featuring a TV star has been released to help support traders in the town.
Starring Casualty actor Jason Durr, the ad showcases the whole town encouraging residents to shop local this Christmas.
The video is available to watch on Malmesbury Town Council’s Facebook page.
During the ad Jason Durr, who also appeared in Heartbeat, says: “This festive season, more than ever before, our local traders here in Malmesbury need your support.
“With so many fantastic indepedent stores in our town, it’s easy to find presents for everyone.
“It’s no trouble to shop locally and help our amazing community to have a very merry Christmas.”
The ad is part of Malmesbury Town Council, with Malmesbury Town Team’s campaign Feel Festive, Shop Local, Spend Local.
As part of the campaign, shoppers will be able to enjoy free parking in Malmesbury.
Visitors using the Cross Hayes car park in the town centre will be able to enjoy two hours free parking this Saturday, December 12.
Free parking will also be available throughout December on Saturday 19, Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23.
To park for free, simply collect your free ticket from the Tourist Information Centre when you park.
There is also two hours of free parking at the Station Yard Car Park and allocated spaces to park on Malmesbury High Street.
Mayor of Malmesbury Campbell Ritchie said: “Malmesbury shops and hospitality businesses have captured the festive feeling with decorated windows and fun activities.
“There is a real buzz in town as more and more residents and visitors are enjoying shopping local and feeling good as Christmas approaches.
“The situation this year, including lockdowns means that it is even more important to support our local shops and retailers, especially in the lead up to Christmas, so we are very grateful to Jason Durr and Tea Smart for making this ad to support both them and our local community.”
A new gift card has also been launched to encourage people to support local businesses in Malmesbury.
More than 30 businesses have signed up to the new Malmesbury Gift Card.
Gordon MacPherson, Town Team spokesperson, said: “The Malmesbury Gift Card offers a local alternative to spending online, enhances the local retail proposition and offers experiences. It’s not just about buying things; it’s about enjoying the social aspects and experiences of our small and vibrant market town.”
The initiative is aimed at keeping money in the local economy.
It works in the same way as any other gift card and the amount that can be loaded onto it ranges from £5 to £500. The card is available to buy from French Grey, The Wild Food Company and Malmesbury Tourist Information Centre or online at malmesburygiftcard.com
A complete list of businesses currently signed up to the scheme is also available on the website.
Share