MEET Michael Longworth, the 24-year-old who aims to build “our town up” by launching a scheme to celebrate independent businesses across the borough.

Michael, from Haresfinch, decided more needed to be done to celebrate the great businesses across St Helens.

So, inspired by similar schemes in Liverpool, he has set up St Helens Loves, a discount card with a yearly membership that will offer discounts and offers at St Helens independent businesses signed up to the scheme.

The aim is to promote independent businesses and support local artists - with one being selected each year to design a new look for the card.

Michael, who also works at The University of Liverpool, said: “I’m really interested in improving the town and want people to invest in it, but after realising the difficulties of getting big names in, I decided we need to do more to support our independents.

“I work in Liverpool, so I am familiar with the Independent Liverpool card that’s well established in the area, offering discounts at linked independent businesses. I thought that could be exactly what this town needs to build us up. If we want to stand out we have got to support our local people and families trying to make their businesses work rather than focussing on what we haven’t got yet.

“By building what we have up and supporting each other, we will make St Helens a more attractive place to invest in.”

Several businesses are already on board like Darkstar Laser and Momo’s. The site and scheme are set to launch in the near future.

Lynn Ben-Yousef from Darkstar Laser, added: "I think it is a great project raising awareness to the community about local independent businesses on their doorstep, and great to offer local people the advantage of a special offer for these businesses.

"A fantastic idea from a very engaged and dynamic young man, that is proud of our town.

"Congratulations Michael on doing something positive to raise the profile of St Helens, Darkstar Laser is looking forward to working with you and St.Helens Loves."

For updates follow @sthelensloves on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.