A campaign to boost trade in Sutton has got off to a flying start - with more than 100 businesses already registering their interest.

The plan aims to create a Business Improvement District (BID) in the town centre to help existing companies and encourage investors and new businesses to the area.

The Sutton BID, which is a business led and business funded initiative, is still in its early stages but already more than 100 of the 400 companies in the area have asked to be involved.

David Guy, of WH Matthews and Co Solicitors and vice chair of the BID steering group, said: “It’s tremendously encouraging that the BID has got off to such a positive start.

"Previous reports that this is a multi-million pound effort are wide of the mark but the £400,000-a-year-funds the BID would generate would make a big difference to our town centre.

“The aim is to bring all the businesses in Sutton High Street together. By pooling resources, businesses have the ability to make a significant and lasting change to the area, making it a pleasant, welcoming and attractive place for people to shop and work.

"This in turn leads to higher footfall, happier employees and ultimately greater profits for all businesses involved.”

A first Sutton BID was narrowly rejected in March this year but supporters are confident that the second vote, due to be held in June next year, will be successful.

Businesses can find out more and get involved in the Sutton BID board by emailing info@successfulsutton.co.uk or visiting successfulsutton.co.uk