Shop owners are calling for Helston to come together and open for late-night shopping with dates discussed for a town event.

Speaking to Paula Jewels, the owner of Fox in the Hen House, on Wendron Street, she said it would be great if the town could have some "hustle and bustle" over the festive season.

Helston held a late-night shopping event last year with nearly 30 businesses agreeing to stay open with carols, the town band, and refreshments available. However, it was heavily affected by the weather.

Melinda King of the Fishermen's Mission told Nub News they will be staying open late again this year until 7pm on the 10th December. Mel is hoping that Helston Town Band will be available to play on the night.

Paula said:

"The event would give everyone a bit of good feeling, it won't just be good for businesses like us but also the pubs/bars, it is a good thing. I don't see any reason why we can't do it, I appreciate the covid situation but everyone will have a mask on. It just makes sense to have a little bit of activity for the town, and help businesses get back on their feet again.

"The covid pandemic has made people look at things differently and I think people are staying more local. It is a nice thing to do for businesses like us that haven't been going very long, businesses that have been here a long time. It gets people back in the door again."

Mel added:

"I think it would work, it would've worked last year had the weather been better. Anyway, we will be doing it on the 10th."

Mel is organising a list of businesses that are keen on staying open. You can contact her through Facebook, or in the shop, if you are interested.

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