SHOPPERS in Coulsdon are being urged to support small businesses in the town as part of Independents Day on Monday.

The event is a national initiative timed to coincide with America's Independence Day celebrations, and organised by retail expert Mary Portas as part of her review into the problems on Britain's high streets.

Businesses in Coulsdon have embraced the idea, and will be offering discounts and special deals for the day.

Amanda Davis, chairman of Coulsdon Business Partnership and the owner of iWoman on Chipstead Valley Road, said she hoped Independents Day would encourage people to support the district's small companies.

The town has had its 'fair share' of battles, she added, citing shops being empty for long periods and businesses closing down soon after opening.

"Businesses bring life into a town and independents bring diversity," she added.

Businesses supporting the event include Farthing Books, Cycling Made Easy and Communitech Digital.

Annette O'Flynn, who owns Farthing Books on Chipstead Valley Road, added: "Independent retailers are vitally important in keeping our high streets interesting, individual and alive.

"But it is only by using them that we can encourage others to move in and bring back great variety and service."