A SCHEME to encourage more footfall into Evesham town centre over the festive period has been hailed a resounding success.
A Christmas shopping trail that featured twenty uniquely-themed nutcracker models is credited with seeing an increase in shoppers compared to data from 2023.
The two-metre high nutcrackers were placed throughout the town and The Valley retail park was inspired by student designs at Vale of Evesham School.
They showcased traditional Christmas themes and celebrated Evesham’s rich cultural history, including nods to the famous Vale of Evesham Asparagus and Blossom Trail.
Darren Bunn of Magpie antiques and giftware on High Street, said: “We loved having Goldie the nutcracker in our shop over Christmas.
“We felt it brought a lot more families into our shop who wouldn’t have necessarily visited us otherwise. It would be great to see some similar trails for other seasons in the year.”
The project was a collaboration between Evesham Place Board and The Valley and ran from November 23 to January 5.
Data from the latest mobile phone technology showed that Vine Street enjoyed a 10 per cent boost in footfall compared to the previous year whilst Bridge Street saw a four per cent lift. High Street experienced a one per cent rise.
Phil Maclean, retail director at The Valley, added: “We are thrilled with the positive response from the community. The increased footfall has been a boost for local retailers and the trail helped to bring the magic of Christmas to Evesham.”
It was funded by Wychavon District Council through the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund with additional support from The Valley.
Place project officer for Evesham at Wychavon District Council, Caroline Tredwell, added: “We know that businesses are working incredibly hard to encourage more visitors to Evesham throughout the year, so it’s been a joy to work on a successful initiative to support them during a crucial trading period.”
