MYSTERY shoppers are to be sent into stores in market towns in the Winchester area in a bid to boost high streets.

Under a new scheme from Winchester City Council shops will agree to be ‘mystery shopped’ and rated on their window displays, interior layout and customer service.

There will also be feedback and advice from consumer experts as part of the ‘Up your game, up your gain’ initiative.

It is open to small retail businesses in Denmead, Wickham, Alresford and Bishop’s Waltham.

Winchester’s portfolio holder for economic development Cllr James Byrnes said the aim was to give shops as much support as possible to reinforce their skills, helping them to compete in the “increasingly challenging” retail environment.

“We want people to come to our market towns, enjoy their visit, and come back – and that depends on our businesses providing a great experience,” he added.