A NEW initiative to entice shoppers back to the high street is set to launch in Herefordshire next month.

Leominster Independents Day on Saturday, March 12, aims to get shoppers back to the high street, and invite visitors to enjoy the farmers’ market.

Visitors will also be able to explore the unique shops, cafes, and pubs that help make up the town's identity, to explore its antique centres, and to take in its fascinating history, say Leominster Town Council.

Parking and bus journeys will also be free on the day, in the hope it will encourage as many people as possible to support the town’s businesses.

During the day, there will be an array of children's activities on offer and events for all the family to enjoy.

There will be street entertainment throughout with local buskers performing, plus the "Mysterious Monk" will be running free walking tours of the town's new heritage trail.

Leominster Independents Day is funded through the Welcome Back Fund, from the European Regional Development Fund (EDRF).