TWO Musselburgh councillors have joined together to urge shoppers to support local businesses this festive season.

Councillors Andy Forrest and Ruaridh Bennett, both Labour, said that local businesses were “key players” in supporting the community.

“They sponsor local events such as the Musselburgh Festival, they sponsor and support our local football teams, and they provide jobs” they stressed in a joint statement.

“When we choose to shop local, we are getting more than a product or a service, we are investing in our High Street and our local economy,

The councillors said: “In Musselburgh we are fortunate to have such a wide variety of great local businesses.

“From Blueberry’s gifts and cards, Mint Fig’s local cheeses and fine foods, Fruit Bakes’ fresh local produce, and James Anderson Butchers’ top-quality meat, there is plenty to choose from for Christmas presents and stocking the pantry.

“When it comes to food, Musselburgh has incredible local cafes and restaurants.

“Whether it’s authentic Italian at Dal Patino’s, quality Scottish produce at The Ship Inn, family hospitality at Ravelston House, authentic Nepalese cuisine at Gurkha Bar and Restaurant, handmade bakes and treats at Cammafi or Fairtrade coffee and home bakes at the Bistro at the Brunton – there is something to suit every taste.”

They added: “This Christmas, we can all make a difference by supporting the people who make our town special and keep our high streets and local economy thriving.

“This Christmas, Shop, Eat, and Think Local.”

They suggested gifting a local business gift card such as the East Lothian Gift Card, which is accepted at more than 100 businesses across the county.

It is available at townandcitygiftcards.com/product/east-lothian-gift-card

For the first 12 days of December, people can enter the ’12 Days of Christmas’ giveaway where £600 of gift cards can be won.

Visit the East Lothian Gift Card page facebook.com/ELGiftCard for more information.