In a bid to bolster visitation to shops after the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns, WOW Wallsend Town Business Association is hitting the pavement in what is believed to be a first.

The new initiative will take fashion, pre-loved and new, to the street and Wallsend Village on Tuesday 16 November from 10am.

“We hope Fashion on The Footpath will prove to be an innovative way to promote the best of Wallsend and cement that shopping local is easy,” WOW Wallsend’s chair Wayne Rogers said.

“It’ll consist of boutiques, along with those with pre-loved apparel, literally taking their style to Nelson Street.

“This is just one of many fun and inventive activations WOW Wallsend is implementing for Wallsend.

“Fashion on The Footpath is unique to our suburb.

“So, we’re hoping our local businesses will take advantage of the buzz we’ll generate.

“We may even have a special appearance from one of Wallsend’s famous residents.”

The very colourful and extravagant Mr Rogers, entertainer extraordinaire, will compere the festivities, too.

“COVID-19 has once again presented obvious roadblocks for all our local businesses over the past 12 weeks,” he said.

“By activating the suburb’s shopping precincts in this way helps promote and support our retail and hospitality offerings, as our community can enjoy the parades and stop for lunch in our local cafes.

“This is the first of many exciting events facilitated by the association over the next couple of months.

“Highlights include the unveiling of a new mural in Wallsend, a Progressive Dinner and A Flick and Some Fun in Federal Park all in November, plus 12 Days of Christmas festivities in December.”

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