A MAJOR new scheme hoping to boost trade and make shopping in Bromsgrove more convenient for residents, has been launched in the run up to Christmas.

Dozens of town centre shops have signed up to a trial to open on Sundays throughout November and December.

Some of the shops already open every Sunday throughout the year but a number, including national chain stores, are getting involved for the first time. These include Boots, Bodycare, Savers, Ryman, Blunts Shoes, Store Twenty One, Mothercare, M&Co and Greggs.

Other names opening on Sunday’s include Argos, Blockbuster, Sweetz, Specsavers, Broad Street DIY and Sports Direct.

The thinking behind the scheme is that with a number of shops open, there is more of an incentive for residents to visit the town centre on a Sunday.

Jan Coulson, the developer of the Bromsgrove Town website, is promoting the scheme.

He said: “Dozens of Bromsgrove shops including many major names will be opening as part of the town’s biggest Sunday trading trial to date.

“In the run up to Christmas, Sunday shopping in Bromsgrove offers a more local and less stressful way to get what you need.”

Mr Coulson added that many of the shops would be making a decision on longer term Sunday opening after Christmas, based on the results of the trial.

Bromsgrove District Council leader Roger Hollingworth said during the trial period footfall surveys would be carried out, which would also help determine its overall success.

A full list of shops taking part in the scheme is available on Bromsgrove Town's website, bromsgrovetown.com.