SMALL business Saturday was a big success for Barry shopkeepers.

Saturday, December 7 saw Small Business Saturday come to Barry, where shoppers showed their support by eschewing chain stores and out-of-town retailers in favour of independent businesses.

The UK wide initiative to spend the day shopping local and supporting the local community was supported by MP Alun Cairns and AM Jane Hutt.

Mr Cairns gave his full backing to the campaign which he says had a definite impact on trade in the town.

"I am so delighted with the response," he said. "I visited a number of shops on Saturday to assess the reaction and almost all reported an extra flurry of activity.

"This is great news and a welcome boost for local traders. We need to maintain the momentum.

"Tony from Vic Hopkins Butchers on High Street told me that it had definitely had an impact and that they had seen a good number of new faces.

"They were delighted to be able to offer their excellent produce and share their valuable experience with a new audience."

Mr Cairns added that he felt it was everyone's responsibility to support local shop sand traders, not only because of their reliable and excellent service but because of the relationships it builds in communities.

He said: "As people continue to shop in the run up to a Christmas and beyond, I hope that local residents will question their usual habits and continue the Small Shop agenda."

Jane Hutt AM said: " I shop early every Saturday morning in my local High Street in Barry because I support our local businesses.

"The quality and freshness of goods together with the service and commitment of our local businesses is second to none."