York BID: "we've had a strong Christmas, but need the public to back local businesses in 2022"
Footfall was relatively high in York in the lead up to Christmas, but people are being urged not to be put off visiting the high street in January.
The York BID team says the city has had an encouraging Christmas, but is warning that local businesses need the public's support this month.
It's as the business group have released promising footfall figures in the lead up to Christmas.
Andrew Lowson is the Executive Director at York BID:
"Compare York's footfall this Christmas compared to 2019 we're only 6% down. We never like to be down in any way, shape or form. However, if I tell you that a lot of the other UK cities were around 25% down on their footfall it goes to show you what a strong Christmas York has had.
"Town is a lot quieter now, and some people will see that as a positive. . However, if you feel inclined please support us. Don’t be afraid to ring up and book ahead if you're visiting local hospitality.
"You can request tables that are set apart more or are near a window. Businesses want your trade and want to make your visit as comfortable as possible. Most businesses have embraced contactless technology.
"It's probably best to use contactless anyway so that you're not handling cash. Even with car parks you can download the RingGo app so that you don't have to worry about putting coins in; all these things put together can help reduce the risk.
"If that helps you to have the confidence to come and support businesses in the city centre, then we would very much welcome that".