NOWADAYS there are far fewer businesses in Stratton; the town's chip shop the latest casualty of an ongoing economic downturn.

Though Stratton's heart beats on, owners of establishments in this part of town are still looking to local people to keep on supporting them in what are continually testing times.

Located in the town's centre are the Lords Court Stores, Kings Arms, the Tree Inn, Morwenna Photography, Hair Evolution, Stratton Gardens, St Andrew's Church and the Methodist Chapel — with Congdon's Home Furnishers, North Cornwall Motorcycles and Stratton Hospital slightly further afield.

These businesses all enjoy varying levels of success in Stratton, relying largely on local residents to support them, and provide much for the community — hosting events, supporting sporting groups amongst others, contributing to charities and much more.

However, competition from larger nearby businesses coupled with a harsh economic climate means, as has become clear nationwide, that local establishments have become far more susceptible to the risk of closure.

See this week's edition of the 'Post' for the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport.