Cleator Moor's small business community is being urged to promote itself this weekend as part of a national scheme.

A number of town businesses have already signed up to participate in Small Business Saturday, a campaign to urge firms to show off their unique appeal while encouraging shoppers to spend locally.

Firms can decide individually how they want to take part in the event, which is likely to include discounts, special offers or free refreshments.

Those taking part are Farrell Sports, Sproats Newsagents, Ann Morgan Opticians, House of Linda Ann, Wilson Willis Butchers, Jar of Hearts, Busy Scissors and Hannah Routledge Clothing.

Dave Farrell, of Farrell Sports and chair of Cleator Moor Chamber of Trade, said it is the third year the town has taken part in the scheme.

"It's a really good chance for businesses to promote themselves and bang a drum for the town," said Mr Farrell. "Cleator Moor, like a lot of towns in this economic climate, has a small businesses community that has to work very hard.

"And events like this are a good opportunity to highlight successful businesses, of which there are a number in Cleator Moor, and we invite customers in the town and surrounding areas to support us on Saturday and beyond."

Nationally, customers spent £623m with small businesses on Small Business Saturday last year, an increase of £119m (24 per cent) on 2014.

For more information, visit the Chamber of Trade's Facebook page or www.smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com.