A campaign is being launched to promote Sidmouth’s businesses, events and activities in the run-up to the festive season. 

With key events such as late-night shopping and Connaught@Christmas set to attract extra visitors to Sidmouth, the aim is to make sure those visitors can find out about everything else the town is offering. 

Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with the town council, Connaught@Christmas and Visit Sidmouth to plan a marketing campaign that will include all the entertainment, events and special offers taking place in the coming weeks. 

A spokesperson for the Chamber said: “All of the above parties felt the importance of supporting local businesses during this period as we appreciate that many are facing challenging times, and we are keen to pull together to promote Christmas in Sidmouth through a marketing campaign across Google and social media platforms." 

A 'Christmas in Sidmouth' section will be created on the Visit Sidmouth website, containing a number of sections to promote events, places to eat that are offering festive menus, special offers for the festive season, and other attractions and activities.

An online form has been created for submitting information on festive offers and events. The link has already been circulated to all businesses that are members of the Chamber of Commerce and Visit Sidmouth. Churches, charities and community groups are also being invited to contribute, as well as shops, hotels, pubs and restaurants. The 'Christmas in Sidmouth' section will be updated daily as new information is received.

The Chamber of Commerce supports the Christmas lights switch-on event, taking place on Saturday, November 19. Golden Tickets are distributed to all primary aged school children in the area by the Chamber of Commerce, to encourage families to come into town. The winner receives a £100 voucher provided by Gliddons Toy Shop. 

Sidmouth’s Late Night Shopping will take place on Friday, December 2. Sid Valley Radio will be doing an outside broadcast live from the Market Square and will be joined by the La La Choir from 6.30pm. Father Christmas will make his usual appearance. The Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses to create their own events and offers to attract customers during the late-night shopping event.