INDEPENDENT businesses in Ramsbottom have signed up to a new mobile app which was launched at the weekend to encourage people to shop locally.

Phlok rewards customers who shop locally by giving them points, which act as a virtual currency, and can then be collected and used at any business which has signed up.

In addition, points are also allowed for ‘following’ or ‘checking in’ at participating businesses on their app.

Ramsbottom is one of a select few towns where the scheme is to be operated, following Congleton in Cheshire and Ilkley in West Yorkshire.

The scheme has seen 18 businesses in Ramsbottom sign up. It was officially launched on Saturday.