Taking the ‘lead’

A new independent marketing initiative is being launched to position Welshpool as a dog-friendly town in order to attract more visitors.

Esme Owens has got together with a couple of friends to launch the idea that she says can give Welshpool the ‘lead’ when it comes to the crowded tourist industry.

“Welshpool is a very dog friendly place to visit and live which is something we really need to be shouting about, so I am going ahead with the dogs’ guide to Welshpool called Paws around Welshpool.”

Esme lives in Kerry these days but spent many years in the town which she says is still “very close to my heart”.

“I have been saying for a while that Welshpool’s independent businesses need a USP (unique selling point) to compete against the big brands that are taking over the town, and when I saw a couple of (social media) posts asking for recommendations of dog friendly places to eat I realised that a lot of places already have that USP.

“Take the Tuck Box, for example. It has been dog friendly for 20 years and gives your dogs a free sausage and allows them to eat with you - you don’t see the likes of Greggs doing that!

“Hopefully with these leaflets going out to all the local caravan parks and as many places as I can, as well as its own social media page, we can increase trade for these local businesses from both locals and tourists and provide extra advertising and footfall (and pawfall) for these ‘pawsome’ businesses!”

Esme is being helped by Ally Clarke from Ginger Hound Photography and Katie McGuire who are providing their services and support free of charge.

“Essentially the three of us are doing it because we love Welshpool and want to help small businesses shout about why we should visit them,” she added.

Esme is looking for businesses to help finance the project and is asking for just £5 to be listed.

“I am doing this purely as a not-for-profit initiative and am asking each business who wants to get on board for £5 to cover printing costs.”

If your business wants to get involved, contact Esme on 07494 774378.

PICTURE: There's plenty of welcome places in Welshpool for dogs, including this spot on the top of Red Bank.