TRADER and town councillor John Parker has launched a campaign to improve Devizes by using The Power Of One.

Mr Parker, who runs the Parker Gallery in Sidmouth Street, believes trade can be given a boost if everyone makes the decision to buy something from an independent trader once a week.

He said: "Trade is always slow at the beginning of the year but this year it has been particularly bad. I have spoken to quite a few other traders in the town and most people have experienced the same thing.

"I got this idea after hearing about a Just A Card scheme started by business woman Sarah Hamilton. Her idea was that if everyone bought at least a card from a shop its future would be safe.

"I decided to take this on a step and came up with the idea of The Power Of One. I want it to be far more than just about shopping but about doing good turns as well.

"It could be something as simple as picking up a bit of litter each day or letting someone out into the traffic. It could create a real feelgood factor and make a huge difference to the town. Once you start thinking about it the possibilities are endless."

Mr Parker, who last year was one of the driving forces behind the creation of the Sidmouth Street Traders Association, now has the backing of other businesses in the street for his campaign.

He said: "We are lucky in our town to have a lot of independent shops but we do need to encourage more people to use them regularly and hopefully this will get people thinking."

Ms Hamilton started her Just A Card appeal after she saw a quote which said: "If everyone who'd complimented our beautiful gallery had bought just a card we'd still be open."

She said that when she read this she thought it was time to fight back. The artist and designer said: "I know just how valuable each and every sale is, not only to independent shops and galleries which make our High Streets unique, but to their artists and designer suppliers. Sadly, it's too late for that gallery, but others need our valuable support."

Mr Parker hopes to use social media to get a buzz about his campaign and for all local shops to eventually carry posters backing The Power Of One. He has also registered a website domain name in The Power Of One.