Local people are being asked to shop local this Christmas in order to help Clapham Junction recover from the August riots.

Businesses in the borough's town centres are working hard to overcome the double whammy of the riots and the economic downturn.

An independent report into the riots published last month said Clapham Junction needed a relaunch event in time for Christmas.

Officials are planning a Christmas marketing push, with festive events planned in November and December to encourage people to shop locally.

A Christmas lights switch on event takes place on November 30, with special guest X-Factor finalist Johnny Robinson.

Shoppers are being urged to think where they are spending to pump back money into the borough.

Steve Pinto, borough businessman and Chamber of Commerce vice chairman said: "Shopping locally is vitally important to our community and really helps to ensure we attract unique, vibrant and successful retail outlets that we can all enjoy.

"Wandsworth Chamber will be backing the borough's retail outlets in 2012 with a special 'Buy Local' campaign, offering retailers the opportunity to promote themselves and to offer discounts locally."

James Cousins, council regeneration spokesman said: "We want to build on the spirit of the Broom Army, and set local people a shop local challenge.

"We know there's a strong sense of community spirit in our town centres, and we would urge people to show their support to local traders by spending money in neighbourhood shops."

Clapham Junction lights switch on is at 6pm on November 30.