The future of Worcester's small independent retailers is being safeguarded by the Chamber Of Commerce.

The importance of retailing to tourism in the area was highlighted by evidence prepared for the Herefordshire and Worcestershire chamber for the House Of Commons All Party Small Shops Group.

The chamber urged MPs to keep this important link with retailers in mind when policy decisions were being made to aid and promote tourism in towns and cities.

Christopher Harvey, head of policy and lobbying at the chamber, said: "Tourism is an important sector of Worcester's economy.

"The importance of its shops for visitors as well as its cathedral, historic buildings and countryside has long been recognised by the city.

"Worcester has long been proud of its range of independent retailers and they add considerably to the attractiveness of the city."

If you own an independent shop and want to comment on this subject, e-mail: c.harvey@chambercs.co.uk