Local MP Mark Pawsey has highlighted Rugby’s 1st Thursdays initiative in the House of Commons during questions to the Leader of the House the Rt Hon William Hague MP.
Late night shopping came alive for the inaugural 1st Thursdays event on the 5th March with retailers keeping the doors open into the early evening and food markets and entertainment across the town.
The initiative was the brainchild of local retailer Simon Ainley of Garden Gates Flowers with financial support from Rugby BID and Warwickshire County Council.
Speaking in the Chamber of the House of Commons Mark said:
“Town centres throughout the country are under pressure from internet purchasers and out-of-town retailers. They can respond either by doing nothing or by getting together to promote themselves and build up the trade, which is what traders and retailers in my constituency have done.”
Mark continued:
“They have launched a “first Thursdays” initiative, which began last week: there were street entertainers and musicians, and shops were open until eight o’clock in the evening.”
Mr Hague responded by “applauding” everyone in Rugby for the initiative and Mark for his support adding that “the Government are committed to helping high streets to adapt… our Future High Streets Forum brings together business leaders from the various high street sectors so that they can understand the issues and drive forward new ideas. When people work together locally, they can really be successful in that regard.”
Mark concluded:
“1st Thursdays is a fantastic initiative. Everyone involved in getting the first event off the ground should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved. I know the event will continue to be a success and go from strength to strength in the coming months.”