Ricky Hatton backs Tameside traders

Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton has backed Tameside Council’s campaign for people to shop in the borough this Christmas.

The boxing legend, a two-weight world champion who grew up in Hattersley but now lives in Gee Cross, said: “I’m very proud of coming from Tameside and want to see our local towns and businesses thrive.  

“Please everyone, get behind supporting Tameside independent traders and shop local.” 

His plea coincided with Small Business Saturday on December 7, which aims to bring attention to local shops and companies, who the Council say can give a more personalised service than multinational corporations. 

Clllr Stephen Homer, Tameside Council’s Towns and Communities lead, said: “A big thank you to Ricky for helping us to highlight our shop local campaign.  

“He is clearly passionate about supporting his local area - as we all should be.  

“However, shopping local at one of the many small shops and businesses in Tameside isn’t just public-spirited, it’s plain common sense.  

“You get great service, great products, and for every £1 spent at a small business, at least 50p circulates back into the local economy which is a very welcome boost.” 

Cllr Jacqueline Owen, the Assistant Executive Member for Town and Communities, who brought Ricky on board with the campaign said: “I know how proud Ricky is about his local community and how the community is proud of him.  

“It’s great we can work together to highlight the shop local message and support our local towns.” 

Locals can support local traders in Ricky’s beloved Hyde over the next two weekends, with more than 100 stalls in the town centre between 10am-4pm on Saturday December 7 and 14.