COUNCILLORS are calling on residents to support the shops in Accrington town centre after further closures in the area.

Giftprint in Peel Street closed its doors at the end of October, after providing personalised gifts and products such as T-shirts and hoodies, in favour of an online only business.

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Neighbouring shop Dee’s Cards and Gifts also shut at the end of last month, adding to growing concerns earlier in the year that shoppers were turning their backs on the town centre.

Cllr Tony Dobson, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council, is now urging residents to shop local this Christmas and give businesses a boost.

He said: “Obviously it’s disappointing, you don’t want any business to be forced to close.

“We need to encourage residents to stop first in Accrington town centre to try and find what they want.

“These shops close because they realise the business situation. It’s happening more and more. I am nervous for people on that side of town.

“It needs a big call for action, residents need to support their town centre. We’ve got to give Accrington the best chance, especially with Christmas coming.”

Alongside local shops, B&M Bargains in Union Road and Marks and Spencer in Broadway closed earlier this year.

Paul Bloor has a chocolate bouquet store in Cannon Corner, Church Street called Celebrate Gifts and he has noticed a lack of footfall.

However he said he also has a website which is the primary source for his business.

He said: “I opened the shop front as a bonus. The shop itself has been extremely quiet.

“Just a general shop wouldn’t be viable. It’s a shame really, a lot of local businesses have been struggling.

“I think nowadays you have to have that internet commerce there to be a success.”

The success of the online store has allowed Mr Bloor to develop and take over a neighbouring second store to allow more room for making products.

Cllr June Harrison, who is part of the Accrington Town Team, said: “Shop owners are moving on because they’re not getting any footfall.”

“They’re closing all the shops down, it isn’t just Accrington.

“The council is doing all they can but people are developing different shopping habits.”