November 28th, 2021.



Shoppers are being encouraged to support their independent stores in Lewes, Newhaven and Seaford in the run-up to Christmas.

Visit Lewes has launched three separate Shop Independent at Christmas campaigns for each of the towns, including first-timer Seaford.

Councillor Ruth O’Keeffe, Lewes District Council Cabinet member for Tourism and Devolution, said: “Our independent shops in the Lewes district are fabulous all year round but they truly come into their own when buying unique, locally-made gifts at Christmas time.

“I hope people take advantage of the great deals on offer and support local businesses as they rebuild from the pandemic, alongside opting for a good way to reduce their carbon footprint.”

Shoppers in all three towns can also take part in prize draws to win Christmas hampers full of goodies - including jewellery, books, toiletries, vouchers and festive treats - donated by independent shops participating in their area.

To participate, shoppers should collect a stamp card listing participating independent shops from pick-up points in each town. Every time a purchase is made, the retailer will add a stamp, sticker or other proof of purchase onto the card. After filling all five spaces, shoppers can return the completed card which will be entered into the local prize draw. The deadline for entries is noon on Wednesday, December the 22nd.

The full list of participating shops can be found on the Visit Lewes website HERE.

In Seaford, over 40 shops are taking part and two hampers are up for grabs. Pick up and drop off cards at Seaford Tourist Information Centre, 37 Church Street, and Seaford Environmental Alliance, Clinton Place (the old NatWest bank). Follow #seafordindyxmas on social media.

Some 34 businesses have joined the Shop Independent at Christmas campaign in Newhaven where two hampers will also go to lucky winners. Pick up cards from Dee’s Newsagents or Newhaven Library but return cards to Dee’s Newsagents only.

In Lewes, 92 independent shops are involved and there are three hampers to be won. Collect and drop off cards at Lewes Tourist Information Centre, 187 High Street, Lewes.

The campaigns are funded by the Welcome Back Fund, part of the European Regional Development Fund.