Bradford's ready to sparkle and shine this winter

Bradford’s winter campaign is officially underway with the focus firmly on the people and places that make the district sparkle.

The Sparkling Bradford campaign, delivered by partners VisitBradford, The Broadway Bradford, Bradford Business improvement District (BID) and Bradford Council, will see the launch of two initiatives in December shining a spotlight on the individuals that have spread a sparkle of joy in their local communities, alongside championing the wide variety of independent and local retailers across the district with a #SparklingFriday campaign.

The ‘People Who Make Bradford Sparkle’ campaign will run from December to February and will showcase the unsung heroes that work in retail, tourism or hospitality across the city.

Cllr Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, said: “One of the things that makes Bradford sparkle throughout the year is the people. We want to use this opportunity to shout about some of these amazing individuals who work in hospitality, retail and leisure that never look for thanks or reward, but absolutely deserve it. This festive season we want to say thank you and celebrate the contribution these special people make to our communities.”

As an alternative to Black Friday, the #SparklingFriday campaign will run every Friday in December with retailers across the district. The initiative will encourage residents to shop locally and support their local high streets. Retailers will be promoting special offers and showcasing their products and services using the designated hashtag across social media.

Ian Ward, General Manager of The Broadway shopping centre & Bradford BID Chairman adds: “We know it’s been a really tough year for many retailers across the Bradford district. This year, more than any other, we really want to bring some sparkle and joy to the festive period and make the most of what is undoubtedly a challenging time for our residents and businesses. Despite the restrictions, there’s lots for people to safely enjoy across the district that will provide support to our local economies and communities.”

Qaisar Sheikh, co-owner of Rimmington's Pharmacy based in the city centre, and the first person featured as one of the people that make Bradford sparkle said: "As a Bradfordian and custodian of a piece of Bradford’s history with Rimmington Pharmacy, I understand the importance in promoting our businesses and communities. There is something for everyone to enjoy across Bradford, above all an experience like no other walking through its historic streets. This campaign offers a beacon to those looking for the Bradford retail experience!"

Weekly what’s on guides, tips, reviews and competitions will all feature on the Sparkling Bradford website throughout the three-month campaign www.sparklingbradford.info