Sandra Rees, a web marketer, has developed a Local Loyalty Card for independently run businesses in Dumbarton, Alexandria, Balloch, and Helensburgh.

Sandra, 55, told the Reporter she’s been trying for years to think of ways to rejuvenate the town centres in the area.

She said: “I’m what you’d call a local tourist. I love walking around my area, going for drives and spending time here.

“It makes me really sad to see all these great family businesses struggling or shut down.

“When I think back thirty or forty years and remember these were great thriving little towns, and I thought I’d try and claw some of that back.” The card, which is free for businesses and customers to sign up for, means that customers will receive a special offer from a business because they are a loyalty card holder.

“As a web designer, I’m always thinking of ideas, and I thought I could really help my local community with something like this.

“I’m bringing people to local businesses and trying to promote the local economy.” The card and software which Sandra designed herself, is a mobile directory that can be accessed on any smart phone, gives customers a list of special offers from trades to hairdressers to corner shops.

The directory can also be signed up for online and printed out for those who don’t have smart phones.

Ms Rees added: “It’s very early days, I only started the scheme less than a week ago but I’ve had huge support. There’s been huge interest, and I’ve had loads sign up already.

“This is a scheme for the entire community. For the last 20 years, all the small businesses have been eaten alive by huge retailers. I’m not knocking them, but the thing is, they can’t offer what local businesses can offer – that friendliness and getting to know your customer. Local business will take the time to talk to you and help you.

“After a while I’ll print out posters for shops so people can see which businesses they can claim their special offers.

“Ideally I want every business and trade to sign up to this and I want the community back together again.” Labour Councillor Tommy Rainey said: “On the face of it this seems to be an excellent idea that will attract people back into town centres. It should be a win win situation for customers and businesses and I wish the venture every success.” Independent Councillor George Black said: “The idea is welcome, and anything that tries to improve local trade for local businesses is to be celebrated.” A spokesperson for Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce told the Reporter: “Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce welcomes any initiative that helps boost local businesses.

“Times have been particularly tough for high street traders so anything that can help rejuvenate our town centres and high streets should be supported. Congratulations to Sandra for coming up with an idea that benefits both businesses and the consumer.” You can sign up for a local loyalty card at: www.localloyaltycard.info.