As the festive season approaches the Council has extended the deadline for residents to spend their £20 ShopLocal vouchers until 24 December.

Hounslow Council offered every household in the borough a £20 voucher as a means to boost the high street and support the local economy.

Over £460,000 has been spent so far since the scheme launched in August.

It is hoped this will stimulate the local economy whilst supporting independent businesses to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cllr Steve Curran, Leader of Hounslow Council said: "It has been fantastic hearing from residents where they have been spending their vouchers, and from business owners about the positive impact it's having on encouraging everyone to return to the high street and shop locally.

"The extension of the voucher will give an extra boost to everyone as we approach Christmas.

"The added funds and exposure provided to independent businesses from this initiative has been vital in kickstarting our boroughs recovery and we will continue to support residents and businesses.

"I hope the voucher has inspired everyone in the borough to make the commitment to continue shopping locally."

The initiative funded by the Governments COVID-19 Additional Restrictions Grant and in partnership with Evouchers, has over 400 local independent businesses participating.

The council said the initiative is providing the extra customer demand necessary to protect and retain jobs.

The build up to Christmas will also see the return of Small Businesses Saturday, the annual celebration that takes place on the busiest shopping day of the year.

This year, on Saturday 4 December, Hounslow residents are encouraged to join the celebration by spending the £20 ShopLocal voucher.

Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services said: "With Christmas just around the corner it's fantastic to see so many people using the voucher and supporting independent traders.

"Small Business Saturday will provide a great opportunity to showcase our wonderful local businesses while injecting important funds into the local economy, which is even more important after the months of additional pressure caused by the pandemic.

"The wide range of small businesses in Hounslow helps to bring our vibrant borough to life. We are committed to supporting local businesses all year round, not just with the ShopLocal Voucher or in the lead up to Christmas. Protecting the Hounslow pound helps keep our local economy flourishing."

Beginning this week, households that haven't yet spent their voucher yet will receive another copy of the voucher code letter in case the original has been lost or damaged since the launch.

The unique QR code is the same and will still only be valid to spend once.

Click HERE to find out more about the £20 ShopLocal voucher and view the interactive map showcasing all participating businesses.