THE CITY centre was deserted earlier today as locals heed the governments advice to, once again, stay at home.

Today, (Nov 4) saw the start of a second lockdown for the United Kingdom with all non-essential shops told they must shut.

The usually bustling city centre streets were empty and silent as residents stay inside to stop the spread of coronavirus.

The previous lockdown was followed by reports of shops and food chains struggling with some ultimately closing down.

But this time around the Worcester BID is calling on shoppers not to forget independents in the city, as many are running a Christmas delivery and collection service.

Samantha McCarthy, from Worcester BID, said: “Our independent businesses are showing their steely determination to succeed by implementing innovative ways for us to shop, eat and drink.

“Our High Street needs these businesses - please shop independently to support them through this.

"If every person in Worcester spent £10 in an independent businesses it would inject over £5million back into the local economy.

“We made sure all our independent businesses now have online platforms.

"Meaning you can shop locally, from your sofa.

“Independents are the future of the High Street with the ability to adapt and embrace change quickly and effectively as we have seen since the beginning of the pandemic.

“Last lockdown they were here for us adapting their business models instantly to deliver you all the products you required.

“Toys and Games of Worcester was one of the first businesses to embrace the new normal, delivering toys and games to children during a really hard time and bringing some joy to young faces.

“It is important that we repay them the favour now and choose to shop local and support them how they supported us. Worcester’s independents did not let Worcester down.”

Michael Lloyd, centre manager at Crowngate Shopping Centre and Worcester BID board director, added: “Failure to support independents now could result in them being lost forever.

"The big online companies have taken enough away from us already.

“Shop local and ensure Worcester High Street has a place in the future.”