BUSINESSES in Oswestry were given a pre-Christmas boost as more people came into the town, according to figures released.

Oswestry Business Improvement District (BID) say that footfall into the town increased by more than 30 per cent in December 2021 compared with the previous month from using the latest data from their Oswestry Footfall System.

Adele Nightingale, manager at BID, admitted that the increase in numbers has left she and colleagues delighted after what had been a tough time for businesses through Covid-19 and social distancing.

"It’s really heartening to see such an increase on the high street in what has been another challenging year for businesses in handling changing Covid guidance," said Ms Nightingale.

"It's an indication of the strength and resilience of Oswestry town centre, the quality of our businesses and the importance of events too.

"It’s also a great tribute to the amazing support shown by residents in shopping local – it is clearly making a huge difference."

The town was boosted throughout the month by events that were able to go ahead despite dears over the rising Omicron variant.

December is traditionally a busy time and this year was no exception with a host of events such as Music Live, the Lights Switch On, Christmas Parade, Christmas Ice Rink, Christmas markets and shopping events too.

This was also supported by car park and bus initiatives to boost the day and night-time economy.

For more information on Oswestry’s footfall statistics, visit www.oneoswestry.co.uk/bid/oswestry-footfall