SAINTS stars have been recruited for a campaign that will attempt to give St Helens’ town centre an economic boost.
It is hoped the creation of the £25m Langtree Park stadium on the fringe of the town centre will have spin off benefits for nearby shops, businesses, restaurants and bars because thousands of supporters are expected to head into town before and after games.
Council chiefs have decided to use the new era for Saints as the springboard for a campaign – branded ‘Local Heroes’ - designed to breathe new life into the shopping area.
Homegrown Saints stars Paul Wellens, Gary Wheeler, Jonny Lomax and Paul Clough will be leading from the front as they throw their weight behind the local economy.
As well as meeting shoppers during organised visits, town centre streets will be emblazoned with messages about the rugby league club.
Banners will be strung across streets at 24 locations echoing the campaign theme while a giant Saints pavement graphic is planned for Church Square.
Pedestrian signs and posters will emphasise key elements of the town centre’s appeal.
They will promote how Langtree Park is just a short walk from the town centre via the new Saints Way bridge.
They will also point to shops, bars and restaurants and places to park in the town centre.
Launching the campaign, Saints skipper Paul Wellens said: “We owe everything to this town and the supporters who come along - week in, week out - to back us on the pitch.
“We were all really enthusiastic when we heard about this campaign and are determined to do all we can to help – by making sure the town remains a thriving and vibrant destination.”
Councillor Andy Bowden, St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Urban Regeneration and Housing, said: “We’re doing all we can to support our town centre businesses through these difficult times by increasing footfall at every opportunity.
“The Local Heroes campaign is being underpinned by some of Rugby League’s most famous faces and it’s really heartening to see our local stars so enthusiastic about putting their town firmly on the map.”
The players will be out and about regularly during the three month campaign, promoting a series of messages including ‘Pride Has a New Home’, ‘Bringing the Magic Home’ and ‘Saints Way - the Only Way.’ Retailers will be encouraged to take part by displaying material in their windows. This part of the campaign will be launched during Valentine’s Day week, when town centre visitors will be urged to make sure everyone knows that they ‘Love Saints - Love St Helens’.
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