South Herefordshire MP Jesse Norman is launching a new competition to celebrate and promote independent local businesses in Ross-on-Wye.

The competition, called Discover Ross, will highlight some of the town’s favourite places to eat, drink and shop over the next three months.

Local people are being asked to nominate their favourite independent local businesses in each category, and to say what makes them so special.

Nominations open on 5 March for the first category: independent shops in the Ross and the HR9 postcode area, and will be open until 25 March.

Anyone can nominate, and there will be a prize for the best nomination in each category, as well as for the winners themselves. The competition ties in with the run-up to the Ross May Fayre, where there will be a special winners’ presentation.

Commenting on the campaign, Jesse said:

“One of the things that makes Ross-on-Wye so special is its independent traders. The last few years have been tough for small businesses, and I have been vigorously lobbying the Government to do more for them, particularly on business rates and city centre regeneration.

“The aim of Discover Ross is to help small businesses in the area to thrive, and to remind us all of what we love about them.

“Last year I ran a similar competition in Hereford, which was a great success. But with the support of local people, Discover Ross could be even bigger and better”.

Nominations can be sent in to Jesse as below:

Letter: Suite 3, Penn House, Broad Street, Hereford, HR4 9AP
Email: discoverrossuk@gmail.com
Twitter: #discoverross

All nominations must include the sender's contact details including telephone and home address.