Mission £1 Million into local tills

The Bedford Swan Hotel is now selling Love Bedford vouchers which support businesses across the town centre.

Run by the Bedford Business Improvement District organisation, the BID vouchers are accepted in more than 250 retail, restaurant, service and support outlets.

“Unlike other gift vouchers, these put money directly back into the tills of Bedford businesses – so by buying Love Bedford vouchers you are supporting your local town centre,” explained BID Director Christina Rowe,

“We want to put £1 Million directly back into the local economy and we are nearly 70% of the way there already.”

Sales and Marketing Manager at the Swan, Natasha Trudgill, said: “It’s a win win for the BID and us and we are glad to be backing our fellow businesses in Bedford by selling the Love Bedford vouchers.

“We are thinking about Christmas already here – our brochures are out. So think about buying Love Bedford vouchers and back Bedford.”

Until now Love Bedford vouchers have only been on sale to shoppers in the town at the Tourist Information Centre  – which will soon be making an exciting move away from St Paul’s Square to the newly refurbished bus station. Shoppers can continue to purchase the vouchers at the Tourist Information Centre, as well as taking advantage of a wide range of services including buying tickets for performances at Bedford's live venues or booking trips on the town's community boat.

The Bedford Swan Hotel is in the premier visitor location at the edge of the High Street and alongside the river. People travel from all over the world to stay at the hotel, and it welcomes UK coach parties. Afternoon Tea, invented by a Duchess of Bedford, is popular too and selling Love Bedford gift vouchers is a perfect fit for ladies who lunch, or drink cocktails on the new look riverside terrace.

*Businesses who want to buy Love Bedford vouchers in bulk can contact the BID direct on (01234) 404500. Bedford College rewards it staff and students with Love Bedford vouchers and has added to the £700,000+ already invested.