It's like turning the Titanic

How often have we heard the cries "Shop local" or "Support locals"? Sadly, and more often than not, we mouth the words but do little to back it up with action.

How DO WE get locals to take this issue a bit more seriously? How many businesses must close, how many people must lose their jobs as businesses respond to dropping sales by cutting staff, at what point do we say no to buying things online from God knows who or where?

Turning people's attitudes around would be like trying to turn the Titanic, not very easy at all. But turn people around we must, and the sooner we do, the longer we'll hold off the inevitable. And what's the inevitable? I believe the inevitable will be an ever-growing number of people relying on welfare to survive. And who ultimately PAYS the benefits that these people will seek? You and me! Can you imagine how everyone's taxes will rise to meet the ever-growing welfare bill. Simply brushing that possibility aside, we do at our peril.

That said, Put Orange First is working hard to get more locals supporting local businesses more often. Be a localist is one of the slogans we're starting to use and promote. Over coming months you'll be hearing a lot more about what Put Orange First is doing but here's something that's happening right now.

Jack Evans Workwear has produced a T-Shirt to help us start thinking in the right direction. Our picture shows you how it looks, and you can work out for yourself how such a T-Shirt could benefit what Put Orange First is trying to do.

Small Business Ideas Forum next week

Another thing that's happening is a Small Business Ideas Forum that is being held at the Parkview Hotel next Thursday June 6 from 5.30-7pm. All local small business owners are encouraged to come and hear what Put Orange First is doing and also to contribute any suggestions for taking our City forward faster than it is going now. You can find more details about this forum in this issue.