Andover is to go red, white and blue in July as it celebrates independent businesses on the high street.

InAndover has announced plans to hold a series of events throughout the month as part of plans to commemorate the best of local shops in town, with markets, entertainment and live music planned.

Shelley Coburn, who is organising the event, said: “We need to support our independents this year, more than ever, as they look to rebuild following the pandemic. The money spent in local, independent shops makes a real difference to business owners and our local economy, so it would be great if the public could support this campaign and spend in our independents.”

The celebrations will kick off on Sunday, July 4, when Independence Day is traditionally celebrated in the USA, where market stalls run by independent businesses, as well as live music and entertainment, will start off the month.

There will also be bunting put up by InAndover throughout shops on the high street, with a range of special promotions running in shops, cafes, and restaurants across town, with details to be revealed throughout the month.

InAndover is run by Andover’s Business Improvement District (BID), which Steve Godwin, the manager, saying: “Independent businesses in our Town Centre are one of Andover’s great assets. We are fortunate to have over 100 established businesses offering a wide range of products and services crucial to communities and known for their quality and service.

“The number of independents in town is growing with new businesses realising the potential that the town offers. Local businesses offer a personal customer service, local and product knowledge and individually chosen ranges.

“This year Andover Independents are urging their customers to support them, particularly during the Indie’s month of July. We hope that our events will shine a light on the amazing businesses we have right on our doorstep, and that residents and visitors to the town will explore and support them.

“The Andover retail sector has shown great resilience in the face of a very difficult pandemic over the last year, working during times of extreme uncertainty in being there for their customers and the wider Andover community.”