TOWN centres are at the heart of our communities and have offered much to generations over the years.

A truer word could not be said for Shotton, the heart of the steel industry, which has much to offer for everyone – as soon as it is safe to visit.

Shotton not only has a wide range of independent businesses on its doorstep, it is also home to the John Summers Clock Tower – which volunteers are working hard day in and day out to restore it back to the landmark it once was.

If anything can be said about the town, it’s the coming together by those who live there to make it a place to be proud of.

From beautiful places of worship, to green spaces and parks enjoyed by all, there is something for everyone in this small town.

Cllr Mike Evans said Shotton was once a vibrant community, adding: “Obviously Shotton was known for its steelmaking. But it was also a busy shopping street with at least four shoe shops, five butchers a couple of clothes shops - you name it, we had it in the town and Thursdays were really busy with the vibrant Connah's Quay Market.

“When I was growing up you knew all your neighbours, not just directly but in all of the side streets. To sum up Shotton was a very friendly town where everyone looked out for each other.”

Like many towns, Shotton suffered during the height of the pandemic and the coronavirus lockdown.

Since the easing of the lockdown restrictions at the end of June, huge efforts have been made to help businesses re-open and to get Flintshire’s town centres back up and running.

Businesses in Shotton have had to make some radical changes in order to comply with the regulations that have been put in place to keep us all safe.

Local businesses care about the local residents and communities that they serve and many have come up with innovative ways, or gone the extra mile, to provide their customers with what they need at this time.

Cllr Sean Bibby said: “We now need to show that we care about them and offer them our support by shopping, spending and eating out locally to help our town centres recover.

“Social distancing measures are in place to ensure that people visiting our towns are not only safe, but are also able to feel comfortable and relaxed.”

Cllr Bibby went on to say: “Shotton like many other town centres across has had its challenges but it is encouraging to see a diverse number of businesses serving our community

“Old stalwarts such as Alf Jones Menswear, T&H Price Butchers and Graham Weigh Cycles still have a strong presence with a number of newer ventures. After an absence of a number of years it is great to see a greengrocer Huson Farm Shop back on the High Street, this has certainly been well appreciated by shoppers.

“I’m very relieved to see our High Street banks retaining a presence here in Shotton, sadly in neighbouring communities have seen closure of branches.

“As Councillors we have continually lobbied our Welsh Assembly Members over the importance of High Street businesses and we are very pleased to say that Rate Relief has been extended and now many small businesses here in Shotton are exempt from business rates, this is a massive help in the current climate.

“I’d encourage all residents to show their support to our local businesses, many have already commented to me their needs have been met and supported during the lockdown period.”