Local shops will be in the spotlight as part of a council-backed campaign to encourage people to return to the high street.

Independent traders in streets including Chingford Mount Road and Station Road, Chingford, have signed up to the Love Your High Street campaign.

As part of the scheme the council is making hundreds of vouchers available at local libraries offering shoppers the chance to get a £15 voucher for £5 which must be spent at participating shops on the weekend of June 8/9.

The streets involved will also welcome dancers and musicians to draw in the crowds.

Barry Wetherilt, who runs the Mantilla Music shop in Chingford Mount Road, is looking forward to the event.

He said: “You never know how these things will work out, but I am happy that something is being done to encourage people to shop locally.

“We have been here for 18 years and we’re doing well, but there are a lot of empty units along the mount and when people see that it can turn them off shopping.

“I would like to think this is the start of a big effort to help regenerate the area.”

The council has set aside £10,000 for the discount vouchers which can be spent at shops in seven different locations.

As well as Chingford, traders in Leyton, Leytonstone and Walthamstow are involved in events between June 8 and June 15.

Francesca Fairs, who owns the Truly Scrumptious sweet shop in Station Road, Chingford, said: “All high streets are suffering at the moment, so anything that helps get people to shop locally has to be good.

“We are more than just shops, we are the heart of the community.

“In the long run though, it would be good if the council could also look at factors such as business rates and parking charges.

“We hear a lot about council tax being frozen, but I have been here since November 2008 and in that time business rates have gone up by 15 per cent.”

Cllr Marie Pye, Waltham Forest’s cabinet member for Housing and Town Centres, said: “We hope we can give local people a real insight into the diverse range of retailers and businesses on the high street.

“Once people have experienced for themselves what their local high street can provide we’re convinced they will keep going back for more.”

A limited number of discount vouchers will be available from North Chingford Library from 9am on the Saturday and 10am on the Sunday.

Residents will need to bring proof of address to obtain them.

For more information on Love Your High Street visit www.walthamforest.gov.uk/Pages/Campaigns/LoveYourHighStreet