INDEPENDENT businesses are rallying behind a publicity push to get a market town back on the map.

The brains behind some of Abingdon's most-loved ventures have backed its entry into a nationwide contest, which combs the country for the best town centres.

Julie Downing, who manages the town's Business Improvement District (BID), jumped at the chance to put Abingdon forward for the Great British High Streets competition.

She said: "It's to get Abingdon's name out there. We have got lots to celebrate and we should start trying to jazz that up a bit. It's time to start publicising what we've got."

Judges will scrutinise entrants in nine categories, of which Abingdon is battling for best large market town high street, with winners awarded £10,000.

The town's entry covers Market Square and the surrounding streets.

Mrs Downing urged residents to back their town's offerings, adding: "We have to start with getting locals back in and reminding them they don't have to get in their car and go elsewhere, especially for food and drink. You have got to use what you've got on your doorstep.

"You can go for a nice leisurely lunch, boat trip or to beautiful Abbey Meadows, have a coffee and a cream cake or to the museum. There is the Monday market and we are hoping to get other things going on.

"We will be trying to do more events and work with schools to try to build community spirit. We want people to come and see it's a vibrant town."

Businesses voted to create the BID last October in the hope of promoting the town and increasing footfall. All applications have to be in by Friday.

Gary Cooper, director of florists Fabulous Flowers in Bridge Street, said: "Sometimes people have a negative view on Abingdon but every high street across the country suffers.

"We have got really special independent shops who strive to do a really good job, and they are what make our town centre different. It's not just chain stores. There is no comparison to Didcot or Oxford – it is unique.

"We have very regular custom from people who live in Abingdon and we couldn't do without them."

Kevin Thomson, who runs the town's Walk.About.Abingdon tours, added: "It's got a fantastic history.

"We don't want people to lose sight of it being a bustling, busy market town on the River Thames. We need people to understand and appreciate how wonderful it is."

In October the government, which runs the competition, will announce a shortlist after which the public will crown their favourite.

Fellow Oxfordshire town Chipping Norton is set to enter this year, coming come second last year to the winning town of Helmsley in Yorkshire.