Spend in the town what you earn in the town – that’s the plea from town centre businesses in Ipswich as the Christmas shopping season gets into full swing.

Some of the largest companies in town, including Willis, Ensors, and Gotelee Solicitors along with the Star have backed an Ipswich Central initiative to “Make your Christmas an Ipswich Christmas.”

The companies will be encouraging staff to buy their presents in the town centre, boosting businesses that rely on a successful festive season.

Early indications are that the town is doing well – central Ipswich was very busy at the weekend with the big light switch-on and this weekend should be another success with the arrival of the continental Christmas market which runs from today until Sunday.

Ipswich Central chief executive Paul Clement said, “We want to encourage the employees and residents of Ipswich to shop in their town centre this year.

“With a range of new retailers opening for Christmas, three festive markets and plenty of events to enjoy, we want to make Ipswich your festive destination this Christmas.”

Mark Parker, Managing Director of Global Service Centres at Willis said: “As one of the largest employers in the town, Willis is very much part of the local community.

“We believe that Ipswich has a lot to offer this Christmas. We have circulated copies of the ‘It’s All about Christmas’ booklet to all our Associates, encouraging them to support our local retailers during the festive season.”

John Matthews from Ensors said: “Our employees live and work in Ipswich and it makes sense to use the town for Christmas shopping. We are delighted to support the initiative.”

Carole Jones, from the borough, said: “Not only have Ipswich shops got all you will need this Christmas, you can take advantage of cheap parking deals and free park and ride on Thursday evenings to leave you with more of your money to spend on gifts or to go to the theatre or have a meal out.”

With the extension of the Quids In offer and free park and ride every Thursday evening to Christmas, businesses are hoping for a bumper season.