SHOPPERS around the globe are being targeted in a campaign to bring more trade to a town centre.

A short film featuring traders and shoppers describing the highlights of Newcastle is being broadcast on video sharing website YouTube.

It is part of the Shop Newcastle scheme aimed at encouraging people to spend their cash in the town's stores, markets, bars and restaurants.

The film, produced by Inspired Film and Video based at Keele Business Park, and the campaign are being launched at the town's monthly farmers' market on Friday.

More than 80 business owners and managers, some of who feature on the YouTube video talking about why they love Newcastle, are taking part in the campaign.

Carl Evans, who owns Cartridge World in Newcastle and is co-ordinating the campaign for Newcastle Chamber of Trade and Enterprise, said: "The town has a real old-world atmosphere and charm, but with all the modern conveniences. There are specialist shops providing a friendly and personalised service to meet all needs.

"Shopping locally provides real economic and social benefits for all of us. A vibrant town centre is good for jobs, keeps our economy buoyant and generates a sense of community identity and pride."

As part of the campaign, shoppers will be able to collect stickers on a special leaflet when they buy from participating shops or stalls. When they have collected six stickers they can send it off to be entered in a monthly prize draw.

The leaflets will be available from shops and market stalls displaying the Shop Newcastle poster and will be handed out at Friday's event when there will be a stall for shoppers to find out about the campaign.

Events are being planned for throughout the year, including a Mad Hatter's tea party and oatcake race.

The campaign has been organised by Newcastle Borough Council and Staffordshire County Council. The county council is supporting the scheme for the first three months to the tune of £5,000 and then it is hoped Newcastle Chamber of Trade and Enterprise will run it.

Debbie Hulse, pictured below, owner of Thyme To Cook in High Street, said: "This year is going to be tougher than last year. This is the boost the town needs.

"It will make people aware of what is actually here in Newcastle.

Henry Cheadle, owner of H Cheadle and Son butchers in High Street, has signed up to the scheme. He said: "Anything that encourages people into the town is a good thing."

Councillor Simon Tagg, leader of Newcastle Borough Council and a Staffordshire county councillor, said Shop Newcastle would showcase the town's diversity.

He said: "Big out-of-town shopping centres look and feel the same – homogenised and characterless.

"Newcastle on the other hand, is packed with added value – history, charm, character and identity. People are rediscovering what town centre community is all about. It's a total experience – not just a product."

For more details visit Friday's farmers' market or email shopnewcastle@ staffordshire.gov.uk.