A modern traders’ association has been launched in New Romney in a bid to ramp up the community spirit among businesses.

The group brands itself #loveNewRomney and has incorporated the popular hashtag which is commonly used to promote certain topics on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

It was the idea of New Romney mum Rebecca Maguire.

She said: “I read lots of negativity about the town on social media in the run-up to last Christmas and I was keen to do something to help people realise what a lovely town we live in.”

'I was keen to do something to help people realise what a lovely town we live in.' - Rebecca Maguire

The town council was on the end of a backlash in December due to a misunderstanding over the town centre’s Christmas tree position.

The tree had been delivered late on a Friday evening and had been put outside the town council offices temporarily for the night.

It was later put in its planned position in the precinct and decorated with ribbons that could be personalised with messages from residents.

The main aim of the group is to run activities to promote the town and offer support to residents and traders.

There is a long-term plan to research and organise a Christmas event in the coming months and revive a town map for potential tourists.

Membership for New Romney-based businesses is free.

Cllr Susie Govett, who represents the Shepway district and New Romney, is also helping with the scheme.

She said: “I’m delighted to be involved with this great team of people and #loveNewRomney will help us to access funding and coordinate it in the best interests of both local businesses and the community.”

The committee consists of chairman, Ms Maguire, treasurer Pam Meller, Lyndon Smith of Broadacre bed and breakfast and Cllr Govett.

A secretary has not yet been appointed.

The group has already had a good response from traders and work will now go ahead to create a social media campaign to promote the town’s retailers.

For more information, email lovenewromney@gmail.com