TRADER’S in Bishop's Waltham think their thriving market town is something to shout about.

And who better to drive home the point, than the town crier?

“It’s all about independent shops – we’ve got to keep the High Street going. Some high streets are under fire but Bishop’s Waltham is fighting back!” said John Grover, town crier for the past two years.

Mr Grover joined a throng of independent shop owners to mark The Independents Day on Thursday morning (July 4) – neatly tying in with the USA’s Independence Day – as shops, cafes and salons stayed open until 7pm as part of a national campaign to boost non-chain stores.

The issue has been high profile in Bishop's Waltham with the controversial planning application for a Sainsbury's superstore.

Cllr Steve Miller, chairman of the town’s Chamber of Trade, said: “We hope an event like this will help people realise how many independent shops we have here and what a great place this is to visit. The high street independents are important because of the variety they bring, and the high level of service you get here.”

The town failed last year to secure a £100,000 Mary Portas high street grant, but the parish then successfully applied for a one-off £10,000 grant, which has gone towards funding a Market Towns’ Development Officer.

Heidi Isa was selected for the role in May and her efforts will be shared by Bishop’s Waltham, Denmead and Wickham.

She said: “I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to combine my professional experience with a personal passion for local economic development and tourism. Bishop’s Waltham, Denmead and Wickham each has its own strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. I can’t wait to build upon these strengths and develop the opportunities in order to realise the full potential of each town.”

A year ago Barbara Nicholson and business partner, Susan Short, opened the boutique clothes shop Cassis on the High Street.

Mrs Nicholson said: “Today was good and there is a good atmosphere around the town. With independents it’s about the personal service you get, which you don’t get with big corporates.

“I think the development officer is great idea.”