Shoppers are being urged to support their local businesses today during the first ever Small Business Saturday.

The national initiative, which started in the United States, encourages people to buy half their Christmas shopping from their high street.

Local businessman Edwin Nelken, whose store Nelken Jewellers has been in Shenley Road for 30 years, said: "I truly believe that people should shop locally.

“There's nothing like dealing with someone you can trust - you can't judge quality over the internet."

Hertsmere Borough Council and Hertsmere Connect, the borough’s new voice for business, are joining forces to promote the day.

Mayor of Hertsmere Councillor Paul Morris is working with traders to regenerate Shenley Road in Borehamwood.

He said: “This day brings in a lot of extra income to shops in the States. It would be fantastic if we can make a difference locally.

"We all like having the choice of individual local shops but they won’t always be there unless we make a real effort to give them our custom.

“Let’s use Small Business Saturday as a reminder to shop locally when possible.”