A NEWLY-established Christchurch traders group will be opening their doors to visitors in a new evening venture this summer.

The Heart of Christchurch traders group have decided to liven up the holiday period for visitors and families, by staying open late on Thursdays in August.

Around 25 independent shops and cafes in the town centre, have so far confirmed they will be open until 7pm on those days.

And in a bid to encourage more people to visit the town, hampers will be raffled weekly, with ticket donations going towards Autism Wessex, Macmillan, Julia's House and the Lighthouse Project.

Linda Cook, from Heartizans, said: "We're a group of independent businesses from the heart of Christchurch, working together to make it more vibrant and welcoming for people.

"I am still a member of the Chamber of Trade, but this is primarily for the town centre independent traders.

"So far, it's working really well and we've had success with signage and getting the flower beds sorted.

"It may be small to start, but at least we're doing something.

"We're also doing a carnival float.

"We're all small businesses working incredibly hard, so it makes sense that we work together. We'd love people to support us in this venture."

Businesses include Heartizans, Urban Gym, Loch and Quay and Edgar and Scott, with many others also taking part.

Posters have been created and placed in premises around the town to promote the scheme.

And as part of first event, on Thursday, August 6, Christchurch and District Band will be putting on a free summer concert from 6pm.

For more information visit The Heart of Christchurch Facebook page.