A MARKET town renowned for its quaint shops will see a new initiative introduced to promote local spending.

Hay Vouchers will go on sale this weekend with the aim to provide a financial boost for the town's independent shops and businesses.

The project has been organised by Hay-on-Wye Chamber of Commerce with £5 and £10 vouchers available to buy from Pughs@Londis, which can then be spent at participating outlets

There is no charge for shops or businesses to take part in the scheme.

Shop owner Debbie Davies originally came up with the idea when she spotted a gap in the market for a voucher that could only be used to support Hay businesses.

She said: "Although many shops in Hay offer their own vouchers, I thought it would be good for shoppers to also have the option of a voucher that could be used anywhere. 

"I hope that as the scheme grows more and more businesses will see the benefit of accepting the vouchers.”

Andrew Williams, chairman of Hay Chamber of Commerce said that the vouchers are perfect Christmas presents.

He said: “The Hay Voucher scheme has great potential. 

"We are looking for businesses and residents to get behind the scheme by buying and accepting the vouchers, as staff incentives or for birthdays and Christmas presents. 

"We think the vouchers look fantastic, and we’re hugely grateful to BWA Design for coming up with such an engaging artistic direction. 

"It’s also a great way for the chamber to invest in the town – by spending £400 on the vouchers, we’re ring-fencing £15,000 to be spent in local businesses.”

Any businesses in Hay-on-Wye who want to take part in the scheme should speak to Mr Williams by emailing him at andrew@eighteenrabbit.co.uk. 

The Hay Voucher scheme will be officially launched at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Hay tomorrow (Friday).