SHOPPERS can bag a bargain on Saturday while supporting Rainhill traders.

Rainhill Gala committee is putting its weight behind the national Shop Local Saturday crusade and those who shop in the village will be rewarded for their custom with a free reusable shopping bag which normally cost £3.

Produced especially for Rainhill Gala and designed by St Bartholemew’s pupil Joshua Mimnah, the hessian bags are ideal for carrying fruit and vegetables, bread or household goods.

Gala chairman Steve Clarke said: “We are delighted to get involved and expect to give away hundreds of shoppers on Shop Local Saturday while encouraging people to support Rainhill retailers. Our shops are at the heart of our village and this is an ideal opportunity for people to come down to their local shops and see what’s on offer.

“We believe that shopping locally is something that is really underestimated. Prices in our village shops are comparable, if not cheaper, than the big supermarkets. There’s plenty on offer and everything comes with a smile. With local shops the experience is personal!”

Participating retailers include Hayes Traditional Butchers, Caffe & Co, Sapphire Valeting, Hallmark Something Special and the Co-Operative.”

Bags will be handed out on a first come, first served basis and the qualifying spend will vary at different stores.

See facebook.com/rainhillgala or twitter.com/rainhillgala for details.