THE Rotary Club of Ilminster is rallying together to boost trade for businesses amid the closure of New Road.

In a bid to increase footfall in the town, Rotarians decided to produce a double page feature on pages 16-17 of this week’s News.

President-elect Linda Piggott- Vijeh said: “Given the difficulties our local businesses have been experiencing I was really excited I was able to organise this funding through the generosity of Rotary.

“I feel this will really help to promote Ilminster as a vibrant shopping town at a time when it will benefit from the increased numbers of visitors for the carnival.

“In conjunction with members of Ilminster Chamber of Commerce, we’ve been able to support those businesses that have reported a significant downtown in footfall that’s so vital to their continued viability.“ The staff at the News have also been incredibly supportive in helping me pull this together.

“The message is New Road may be closed, but Ilminster’s still open for business.”

Community service chairman, Rotarian Brenda Lake, said: “This initiative is especially appropriate for our club this year where our key focus is on greater community engagement.

“This is a practical and constructive way in which we can demonstrate our ongoing commitment to the people of Ilminster.”

Rotarian John Wood, president of the Rotary Club of Ilminster, thanked the district’s 1,200 clubs, and David Welch, who he said worked tirelessly to help those affected by last winter’s floods.

He said: “The generous donations of Rotarians across the country have enabled us to play a key part in helping our local economy.

“We’re hoping this initiative will generate more interest in Rotary as we’re always keen for new members to join us.”

The group meets on Wednesdays at 6pm at The Shrubbery Hotel.

Call 01460-66668 or email lindavijeh@hotmail.com for more information.