A follow up visit to the town was prompted by Millom and District Traders’ Forum who are seeking assistance to help improve their businesses.

Following a visual review of the town on Monday 18th June (to help identify changes since his last visit in May 2011) The Shop Doctor will present a retail workshop aimed at helping retailers to identify how they can positively develop their impact on their customers, improve loyalty and attract new business.

Commenting on his previous visit he said: “Last time it was a holistic look at what I felt the town needed to brighten itself up. This time it is orientated towards the retailers, and making their businesses even better”

Mark Holroyd, South Copeland tourism officer said: “We’re delighted to invite Bill back to Millom to deliver another inspiring workshop for our businesses.

“South Copeland has great shops which deserve to do well. Bill’s workshop will help these businesses to grow.”

One of the businesses to benefit from Mr Smith’s advice last time around was the Toy Barn, in Bootle.

Joint owner, Rachel Fallows, said: “Bill gave us some valuable advice about the appearance of our shop last time he visited. As we’ve just launched our online shop I’m really interested in what he has to say about attracting customers to our website via the internet and social networking sites.”

Mr Smith added: “ Operating high street businesses continues to be extremely challenging and for many retailers business is actually harder now than they have experienced for a number of years.” He added  “Retailers can only put so much in for so long and  many  have already reduced staffing levels to minimum and have taken far less out of their businesses ( or indeed had to put resources in) over the last few years.

“There is a limit to how long many can survive. They need focused help, motivation and guidance, many have the skills but ensuring that they are applied effectively  is critical.”

The Shop Doctor believes that independent retailers help place a unique stamp on any trading environment, through the type of shops that they operate and reflecting their individual personalities, helping them to survive and develop is essential in maintaining towns with a distinct trading character.

The workshop takes place on June 18, in Millom Network Centre, in Salthouse Road, from 6pm. The course costs £5 per place and includes refreshments.

For more information contact Millom Network Centre on 01229 719650 or email mark@southcopelandtourism.org.uk