A UNIQUE scheme launched to support local businesses is taking off.

The Knutsford voucher can now be redeemed at more than 40 shops, bars, restaurants, pubs and retail outlets across the town.

Cottons Hotel & Spa has become the latest business to sign up to accept the voucher as a payment method.

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The initiative was launched in 2020 to offer a gift voucher exclusively for Knutsford shops that goes directly to local businesses to the town’s economy.

The vouchers have recently had a makeover and can be used as gifts for friends and family.

Companies have also presented them to welcome new staff or reward colleagues.

The value of the vouchers have been kept low to provide flexibility so people can spread their support across a number of outlets.

Barbara Simms, from Cottons Hotel & Spa, said: “We are delighted to be a part of the Knutsford voucher scheme.

“It’s a great way to support local businesses throughout the year.

"If you have a voucher to spend come down and see us.”

Laura Christie, co-owner of Linden Stores on Minshull Street, said: “We will be celebrating our first year in Knutsford this autumn and we love being part of this vibrant market town.

“We are more than happy to be part of this scheme so if you are looking for a unique present for someone, buy some Knutsford vouchers.”

Sandra Curties, Knutsford Town Council’s town centre manager, said: “The scheme is a cost-effective way to direct spend to our town’s independent shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants.

“The vouchers come in denominations of £5, £10 or £20 and come presented in a beautiful gift card making them the perfect gift.”

Businesses accepting the vouchers include Amador, April’s Kitchen, Arthur Lee Interiors, Bare Necessities, Bikes n Gear, Chalk 33, Cheshire, Granite Worktops, Clarity Contemporary Jewellery, CLNQ, Cocaranti, Cottons Hotel and Spa, Cranford Café & Sandwich Bar, Crate Cheshire, Detaljer, Elite Health, Evuna Knutsford, Flock of Arts, Hal Whittaker, Hot Cocoa, iVape, Kanoa Living, Knutsford Hearing Centre, Knutsford Stationery Shop, Lanigan and Hulme, Linden Stores, Morgan Edwards, Fine Wines, Neki Café, NxStep Personal Training, Oil Art Advisory, Oliver Wild, Pastiche, Paris Boutique, P R Jones, Roberta Beauty Redefined, Satya Sanctuary, Serenity Designs, Tatton Perk, The Market Butcher, The Real Fruit Creamery, The Rose & Crown, The Tea Room, White Orchid, Floral Boutique, Williamsons Bakery. Willow Boutique and Woods Butcher.

Any business in Knutsford interested in joining the scheme can call Sandra Curties on 01565 653929.

Only shops based in the town, not surrounding villages, can take part.