TRADERS have banded together to put on a mini street carnival to attract Christmas shoppers away from the town centre and into their street.

Store owners on Accrington's little' Blackburn Road feel they are missing out on a lot of festive custom because shoppers prefer to browse the more central areas of the town for Christmas gifts.

Ten shopkeepers have now clubbed together to hire Blowjangles, a travelling carnival act, which they hope will entice shoppers to the street with their mixture of music and performance arts.

Sarah Dodson, of children's designer wear store Bugalugs, said: "There are lots of shops in this parade where people can buy some fantastic presents.

"But many shoppers don't even know we are here. We thought the mini carnival would be a colourful way of letting them know where we are.

The performers will tour the street between 1pm and 2.30pm today.

Retailers will also be handing out flyers with special discounts for shoppers.