Aspatria mayor Barry Chambers is urging townsfolk to shop locally first this Christmas.

Councillor Chambers said there were a variety of businesses in the town which supported many community events, including the Christmas lights and the carnival.

He said: "It would be good, at this time of year, if we could look to these businesses for our Christmas shopping before going out of town or online."

Toni Magean, Aspatria and Maryport town centre manager, said: "The best way to attract investment in any town is for it to have a vibrant economy and the best way for that to happen is for residents to use the services on their doorstep.

"You perhaps cannot get everything you need in some of the smaller places but I would encourage everyone to explore their own shops and services before going elsewhere."