THE Star has always been a big supporter of local businesses and it’s great to see the newspaper launch a new campaign to support the St Helens economy as we try to recover from the impact of COVID-19. 

Our local economy is a lot stronger and more varied than many give it credit for.

From large multinational companies such as Nijman-Zeetank International Transport in Haresfinch, Vimto in Newton-le-Willows, Knauf Insulation in West Park, Amazon in Haydock – soon to be joined at the Florida Farm site by Kellogg’s – and of course Pilkingtons, to hundreds of small independents in our town centres and around the borough.

St Helens Star: The jobs of staff at a UK Pilkington factory hang in the balance, as the glass manufacturer is to cut production

There are around 4,500 businesses in St Helens that directly employ more than 60,000 people. 

It’s going to be a challenging time for all businesses, but the #StHelensIsOpen message is one we can all rally behind, in particular to support the many local small businesses who are vital not just to the economy but to our communities.

Last week the Star published an interview with Chris O’Dea, owner of OD’s based in St Helens town centre, about the challenges his business has faced and the ways he has adapted.

St Helens Star: Big city style in the heart of St Helens: Chris O’Dea in his new store

Chris O'Dea of OD's menswear

OD’s is a great example of a thriving local business, one that draws in customers from miles around, and Chris is always someone worth listening to.

READ> We need to shop local and embrace digital

From the start of the pandemic lots of local businesses very quickly began offering goods and services in different ways, and as a Council we have done all we can to promote them, including by setting up a page on our website so residents can easily browse and find out what’s available – www.sthelens.gov.uk/sthelensisopen.

I’ve had lots of comments from businesses and residents thanking us for this, and lots of people saying they didn’t realise we had such a great local offer!

Now is the time for us all to support these local businesses and to help them get back on their feet in the months ahead.

Best wishes to all Star readers.