Bridge shops staying open late this evening

With less than two weeks to go before Christmas Day, islanders will have the chance to pick up gifts, with most of the shops opening late this evening.

Martin Search, managing director of jewellers Ray & Scott, said the support of islanders for local shops was appreciated and he hoped that mild weather would encourage people to pay a visit.

‘It’s been a particularly difficult year for some businesses this year,’ said Mr Search, who also organises the Christmas lights on the Bridge.

‘There are a lot of small businesses on the Bridge who have struggled with staff and it would be a nice gesture if people could come and support the businesses.

‘We are so grateful for all the trade so far and we all feel bad for those who currently have Covid and who are unable to attend.

‘If we all stay safe and vigilant then we’ll make it through the season.’

The opening times for late shopping this evening vary between businesses, and shoppers are advised to check closing times.

Small traders market as well

SHOPPERS have the option of browsing an eclectic mix of creations and merchandise offered by members of the Guernsey Small Business Collective this evening.

Since the collective was established in late summer, it has hosted three Le P’tit Marchi events, with the final one of the year going ahead tonight between 6 and 8pm at St Martin’s Parish Hall.

‘We are a collective of artisans and vendors offering an eclectic mix of creations and merchandise,’ said Emma-Jayne Sarahs from the collective.

‘Our aims are to support other small businesses and to share our knowledge and expertise with the collective members and to come together and host market events where stallholders can showcase their products.’

Its members had had a busy pre-Christmas season with events well supported in general.

‘Although still well supported, there has been a noticeable decline in attendance at some of the larger events which in previous years have been extremely busy with large crowds. The events have still been profitable to attend,’ she added.

‘There is certainly a general feeling that Covid has certainly had a knock-on effect on numbers of the general public attending events.

‘Some of the collective have experienced difficulties in obtaining stock or raw materials. This has obviously had a knock-on effect on the end product availability. There has also been a notable increase in costs, not only for the stock but also for the shipping.’

Dates for events held by the collective in 2022 will be released in January.