| Good evening, So how was it for you? We have completed our first day out of lockdown and back into the tier system - which here in Lancashire means the strictest version with Tier 3. Critically, today most shops were allowed to reopen under Covid protocols -a lifeline for many businesses, as they go straight into the busy festive seasons. But for many this has come too late with the second lockdown proving particularly cruel for those already on the edge after the first. Stopping trade again proved too much for all too many. As many small shops quietly fade away, the larger chain stores are doing so loudly - the combined impact on our high streets for the future cannot be underestimated. We cannot save all but we have the power locally to support those still trading. They need us to shop local and keep them going - if you can support a local store you are supporting not just a business, but jobs, families and the prosperity and diversity of all our local communities. Christmas is coming, let's keep supporting local wherever we can. Feel free to drop me a line on this or any issue at gillian.parkinson@jpimedia.co.uk. Until next time, stay safe, Gillian Parkinson Editor I would like to ask if those of you who do not yet subscribe to www.lep.co.uk or www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk would consider taking out a digital subscription. By doing so, you are supporting local, community journalism and helping to ensure that it survives and thrives. A subscription gives you unlimited access to the site, for all the news and sport you need - and more, including our newly-launched Puzzles section. You can subscribe here: https://www.lep.co.uk/subscriptions for the Post and here https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/subscriptions for the Gazette. And thank you. | 