Run by the Ministry of Housing and Communities & Local Government, the Great British High Street Awards celebrates achievements on our high streets.
Salisbury’s application has been submitted by Salisbury Business Improvement District (BID), which hopes the high street will be recognised for its unique shops, community spirit and resilience since the tragic events in the city this year.
Mentioned in the application is the Salisbury umbrella display, an installation of 90 hanging umbrellas suspended above the high street in a bid to increase visitor numbers.
The Great British High Street Award also recognises individuals who play a lead role in making our high street special, with the High Street Hero Award.
Susi Mason, owner of Casa Fina, has been nominated as Salisbury’s High Street Hero, in recognition of her time, dedication and commitment to the city.
Casa Fina has been a feature of Salisbury’s High Street since 1983. Susi continually adapts her business as retail evolves and is an example of a business who has demonstrated extreme resilience.
Susi is also the Chair of the Salisbury Indies group, an organisation which works to promote the independent businesses in the city-centre.
Kara Rogers, Marketing & Communications Manager of Salisbury BID, said: “Susi is an invaluable member of Salisbury’s business community. She has a very hands-on approach and regularly takes time from her own business for the benefit of Salisbury. She is a true High Street Hero and deserves the recognition for all her efforts.”
Salisbury MP, John Glen, is supporting the BID’s application and said: “We in Salisbury have so much to be proud of, and this is our opportunity to demonstrate Salisbury’s resilience and community spirit. After a difficult year for businesses, we want to show the rest of the country what a fantastic place Salisbury is to live, work and visit.”
Entrants to the awards, sponsored by Visa, are in with a chance of winning up to £10,000 for their community.
The overall winner is determined by a judging panel from the Great British High Street Awards and will be announced at an awards ceremony in London in November.
In partnership with VisitWiltshire, Salisbury BID co-fund the Visit Salisbury website to promote the city to visitors. The Visit Salisbury website has a full events calendar for Salisbury.