Shoppers are being urged to 'shop local and shop safely' as part of a campaign to support businesses in Barnet's high streets and town centres.

The Discover Barnet campaign by Barnet Council began on Monday and will run into the summer.

The idea behind the scheme is to encourage residents to support local business owners to ensure Barnet’s high streets are able to overcome the damage the past year has done, and give them the support they need for a positive and thriving future.

The Worshipful Mayor of Barnet, Cllr Caroline Stock, said: "After the year we have all endured, Barnet’s high streets will only flourish if the local community embraces them and helps nourish them back to the vibrant meeting places and hubs they once were.

"Our high streets have never before been under so much pressure. We can all do our bit to help. This spring we have a real opportunity to support and celebrate our local traders by exploring our local shops and returning to the much-loved businesses that we know so well and have greatly missed in recent months."

Barnet has more high streets than any other London borough, and large-scale town centre redevelopment schemes are being delivered across Finchley, Edgware, and Brent Cross.

The Temporary Street Space Fund and temporary street trading licences are making it easier for businesses to operate under the current coronavirus regulations.

With restrictions easing, Cllr Stock warned residents need to continue following the rules.

She said: "Safety is paramount to keeping our local shops and services open. We must all adhere to social distancing, wear face coverings indoors and follow the COVID-safe measures that Barnet’s businesses have worked so hard to put in place. With that, we can look forward to returning to a degree of normality, rekindling old connections and making new ones with the businesses and communities that are at the heart of our high streets."