With uncertainty about whether a lockdown will be enforced in January, Bournemouth Coastal Bid is urging people to get out to its trading areas before Christmas.

In Westbourne, the Coastal BID’s levy-payers have funded lights and shopkeepers have done their bit to make a visit to the village a wonderful festive experience.

The other trading areas – Tuckton, Pokesdown, Boscombe, Southbourne, East Cliff, West Cliff and the Seafront – have also summoned some festive cheer with the help of the BID.

Dawn McLachlan who runs the Porterhouse pub in Westbourne – which has been forced to close – is part of the BID and has challenged shop keepers to light up their windows.

She said, “We have some new businesses that have opened recently and there really is a festive feel to Westbourne.

“With assistance from the Westbourne Business Association we’ve all pulled together to make the place welcoming.

“The traders, who fund the BID through a levy, have created some wonderful windows – and the children love looking at them.

“We have plenty of coffee bars and tea rooms, so a visit to Westbourne will be a great experience.

“Without custom many businesses will struggle in the new year, especially with Covid uncertainty remaining.

“That’s why we need people to come and see us before Christmas, and so do the BID’s other trading areas.”