INDEPENDENT shops in Colne are set to sign a manifesto which pledges to put customers at the heart of their businesses.

The Celebrate What’s Great scheme is the brainchild of Pendle Council and Colne Town Centre Forum.

Graham Wharton, chair of the forum, said: “Pendle’s independents offer a different service to the big corporates.

“And it’s those added extras like free expertise, gift wrapping, free parking, locally-sourced products and even just a general chat to put the world to rights that help our customers feel good about shopping with us.”

Councillor Paul White, who oversees enterprise and growth in the borough, said: “Independent retailers do compete on price but that’s not all – they can often find it easier to focus on the customer, which is what it’s all about.

“Pendle’s independents have come together to say to customers: ‘We know you’re over worked, we know money can be tight, we know you’re busy – come to the independent business on your doorstep to save time and let us look after you’.”