Alresford shops have launched their ground-breaking loyalty card in a bid to stem the flow of shoppers tempted to use the Internet and out-of- town centres.

The SO24 privilege card is designed to reward local shoppers and regular customers.

Some are offering discounts, while others will be giving free goods and services or invitations to special evenings.

This unique scheme for the market town north of Win-chester, believed to be the first of its kind in Hampshire, has been launched by Alresford Chamber of Commerce.

The chamber has mounted a strong counter offensive against the prospect of an edge of town supermarket development.

Three thousand plastic cards have been produced for the launch involving 27 businesses. Jennifer Laing, chairman of the chamber of commerce said: "The message is that Alresford is a super store in itself. People have everything they need.

"The town is full of independent specialist businesses, and shoppers can still buy everything from a washing machine to a pound of carrots in its historic town centre."

Benefits to card holders in February and March include a free tin of Baxter's soup with every large granary loaf bought in Harvest Delicatessen and Bakery, in West Street.

Caf Cresson in Broad Street are offering card-holders a free hot chocolate with any cake or pastry bought after 3pm, Monday to Friday.

Denise Hendrie, from Kilmeston, who shops in the town every day said: "I think the loyalty card is a brilliant idea.

"I shop here every single day of the week and have been coming to Alresford since I was four.

She added: "I would oppose any supermarket in this area."

The cards will be available to shoppers at participating shops and businesses from this week. Alternatively, a privilege card can be obtained by writing to the Chamber office at Dutton Gregory, 24 Broad Street, Alresford.

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