WHEN the going gets tough . . . Buy Local.

That has been the clarion call of Bury-based accountants TaxAssist which is celebrating the first anniversary of its successful idea.

The Rochdale Road company’s high-profile “Buy Local” campaign was launched at the height of the recession. Its objective was to encourage local independent businesses to support each other through the tough times.

Starting with shops in the Rochdale Road area, the campaign is spreading across Bury. Organisers say the success will prove its worth as the economy gradually recovers.

Brian Dormer, proprietor of TaxAssist Bury, said: “It has been fantastic to see so many businesses now displaying ‘Buy Local’ stickers.

“But it’s more than just a sticker in a window. It’s about co-operating with and supporting other small Bury businesses. It is particularly gratifying to learn of so many new business relationships forged over the past year through the scheme.

“That means those businesses will come out of this stronger than when the recession hit. “If anyone wants to join the campaign, they need only contact us and we’ll happily send them a sticker.

Alternatively, all small businesses are welcome to drop by for a coffee and a chat.”

For a free sticker and to find out more about the campaign, call 0161 272 0527 or email briandormer@tax assist.co.uk.