A Midsomer Norton High Street trader has reached out to fellow business owners to bring some autumn-themed positivity to the town.

Kelly Copeman, from Magpie Vintage and Curiosities, is organising an Autumn-themed shop window trail and pumpkin hunt in the hope of bringing more footfall to the High Street in these challenging times.

Kelly said: “Calling all businesses in and around Midsomer Norton High Street. Hopefully you are all well and coping with the current situation. We need more footfall and confidence in the High Street, so I thought it would be nice to put on an event to bring people to the town – safely.

“The idea is to put on your best display on the theme of Autumn, Harvest or Halloween during October. There will be maps produced of the shops

participating and these will be available from the foyer of Magpie Vintage and

Celia’s Place.

“A voluntary donation of £1 is being asked for each map, payable at both businesses or at Just Giving (charity to be decided so any suggestions welcome).”

Talking to The Journal, Kelly said she would like to organise small events like this to bring some positivity to the town and give people a fun and safe reason to visit – taking the anxiety out of going to local shops that some may experience whilst the pandemic continues.

There are currently ten businesses involved in the trail, but Kelly is hoping that more will get involved as the month goes on.

Kelly and her friend Celia, both with businesses in the town’s High Street, have decided to give the recipient of each completed checklist handed into their shops a small gift.

Kelly said: “Customers can also vote via the form or online for the best window display.

“The winning business will be given a certificate and also, hopefully, the benefit of publicity.

“We want the launch of the event to coincide with the Midsomer Norton Farmers’ Market this

Saturday, 3rd October.

“There will be a Facebook page dedicated to the event where the public can find information, maps, donate and vote.

“We all need something positive and fun at the moment and hopefully, it will bring us more customers to the town.”

If you would like more details or to register your participation, please either pop in to Magpie or email Kelly at: [email protected]

Readers can also follow the trail via the Facebook page: Midsomer Norton High Street Autumn Trail & Pumpkin Hunt.