TRADERS in Taunton's independent quarter are being given a festive boost by the council.

The many unique retailers and businesses around St James Street, Riverside Place and The Courtyard are hoping the initiative will encourage shoppers to drop by in the run up to Christmas.

Somerset West and Taunton Council is providing festive lighting and decorations, along with extra signage to the area.

And there will also be live music at an event to celebrate Small Business Saturday tomorrow (Saturday, December 4).

Now in its ninth year in the UK, the national Small Business Saturday campaign encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support small businesses in their communities.

The initiative is being taken to help boost footfall in the area where the council’s Coal Orchard regeneration development is nearing completion.

A temporary footpath is being created through the site to allow access into Riverside Place and past the Brewhouse from the bridge at Morrisons for the Christmas period.

Cllr Marcus Kravis, SWT executive member for economic development, said the council is working with Midas Construction, who are carrying out the Coal Orchard development, to "open up sections of the public realm for the Christmas period to ensure visitors can easily access the area which is home to many independent retailers and businesses".