STROUD District Council has become the first local authority in the country to sign 100 businesses up to a loyalty card scheme.


The scheme is aimed at helping businesses in the Five Valleys attract customers to their stores through promotions and discounts of their own choosing.


Similar initiatives are currently being run in eight different locations around the country but SDC has become the first council to sign 100 businesses up to its scheme after Nailsworth Computer Shop in George Street got on board.


SDC's executive member for regeneration Roger Sanders, said: "It is great that the card is proving so successful. We want to help our High Streets and encourage local people to buy from local businesses.


"Our shops, cafes, restaurants and tradespeople are open for business and this card helps show that."


Patrick Coyle, who runs Nailsworth Computer Shop,  said: "We are very proud to be the 100th company to sign up for this great idea.
 

"In these tough times, it is more important than ever to keep the local economy moving by using local services whenever we can and this scheme helps do just that."


The free loyalty card is simple to use and is available to any business in the district.


They can choose their own promotions, with current examples including discounts, free drinks with meals and free items on multiple purchases.


To claim any particular offer all customers have to do is show their loyalty card.


The cards are available from tourist information centres, the Ebley Mill council offices and a number of participating businesses listed at my-loyalty-card.com/stroud.


Any traders wishing to sign up should email admin@my-loyalty-card.com