PENARTH businesses are set to stay open late in the run up to Christmas in a bid to encourage residents to shop locally.

Businesses from Windsor Arcade, Glebe Street, Plassey Street, Station Approach and across Penarth have agreed to stay open until 8pm on December 4.

It’s hoped that the later opening hours will encourage Penarthians to do their Christmas shopping in the town centre and boost local independent businesses.

Umpalumpa Sweet Shop, Windsors, Griffin Books, Dotty Pots, Rachel Burgess Bridal designs, Sewing Bee, Rowleys, Pura Vida, Sweet Peony Flower Design, Alley Cat Ink and many more businesses have already signed up to opening late.

Mel Griffin, owner of Griffin Books, has urged the whole town centre to get involved.

“We are trying to encourage people to shop locally and if the whole town got involved it would be great,” she said.