REPRESENTATIVES from businesses, schools and community groups have joined forces to help develop a “brand” for Neston.

The event, co-funded by Cheshire West and Chester Council and Neston Town Council, was deemed a great success and work will now continue to develop the brand.

Neston councillor Andy Williams, representing Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “The brand and marketing exercise demonstrates the council’s commitment to retaining and improving the vitality of our distinct market towns and the event was an excellent example of organisations working together to improve the retail offer in Neston.”

Neston Town Councillor David Clark added: “I would like to extend a thank you to the business and community members who participated in the workshop. Their input to this process is essential as we develop the opportunities for Neston.”

Many other market towns have successfully developed brands for their town centres and seen an increase in the number of visitors to their towns as a result.

Local brand and communications consultancy Hilary Berg Consulting has been commissioned to assist the process and will produce a report on the event within the next few weeks.

“The community spirit within Neston is fantastic and we have an enthusiastic response, from lots of people with good ideas. It will be great to hear as many views on the report as possible” said Hilary.

Paul Davies from Neston and District Chamber of Trade said: “We look forward to Hilary's report after such a well-attended and interesting workshop.”