Bury Free Press BID Column November 2024
Doesn’t it look wonderfully Christmassy in the town centre now following the Our Bury St Edmunds Christmas Lights Event earlier in the month? It was good to see lots of people enjoying everything the afternoon and evening had to offer. Thank you to all who came along and supported the event and our wonderful stage performers too.
For the first time at the event, we had an Our Bury St Edmunds stall and it was great to chat to visitors enjoying all the entertainment and spread the word about our Town Centre Gift Card, which is always a good present at this time of year whether for a loved one or even the work Secret Santa as it’s flexible in the amount that you can give. It’s accepted by more than 70 town centre businesses too. You can find out more about how to purchase the card or the e-card version on our website.
A few days later it was St Edmund’s Day and it was good to see the flag flying from prominent buildings such as the Norman Tower. A number of our businesses also put up flags or bunting, which we have been happy to give to our member businesses free of charge in recent years. Marimba even brought out a special St Edmund chocolate truffle for the occasion.
And of course the celebrations don’t stop there. This time of year is one of the most important trading periods for many businesses. We know that the economic climate is still very challenging but our town centre remains vibrant. If you are looking to get together with friends or family or perhaps have a team night out with your colleagues then, as the foodie capital of Suffolk, you are spoilt for choice here. Our hospitality businesses offer so much variety whether you are looking for a mince pie and a seasonal hot drink, or the full turkey and Christmas pudding meal – plus everything in between – but all will appreciate you booking in advance to avoid disappointment.
If you are out and about in the town centre with a four-legged friend then I’m delighted that Bury St Edmunds has been officially recognised as the UK’s most dog friendly town. After a public vote, the winners of the DogFriendly Awards were announced last week.
Finally, it’s time to cast your vote in the annual Our Bury St Edmunds most festive window competition. The town centre businesses really do pull out all the stops with their windows and it’s so difficult to choose a favourite. But with your help we will find a winner who’ll get to display the shield for the next year. If you are a participating business make sure to tell all your customers to visit the Our Bury St Edmunds website and vote before December 13. Everyone who votes will be entered into a draw to win a festive hamper.
By Our Bury St Edmunds BID Business Support Manager Mike Kirkham.
