SHOPPERS in Sidmouth High Street this week say they are feeling the bite of the credit crunch. Val Price, 56, of Woolbrook Road, said: It s such a shame to see empty shops in the town, I feel we should try and support local business as much as we can but times are really tough

SHOPPERS in Sidmouth High Street this week say they are feeling the bite of the credit crunch.

Val Price, 56, of Woolbrook Road, said: "It's such a shame to see empty shops in the town, I feel we should try and support local business as much as we can but times are really tough. The cost of living, with food prices and petrol so high really takes the pleasure out of shopping. We have some really nice shops here with some great, unique things but I'm afraid I'm limited to window shopping at the moment. I'm glad its been sunny because I'm dreading having to heat my house with the hike in prices."

Recently graduated Chris Stafford, 24, of Alexandria Road, has found life tough since university, especially the weekly food shop. He said: "Things like cheese, bread and meat have gone up so much and it sounds funny but to me a good loaf of bread is a bit of a luxury at the moment.

"There are loads of great independent bakeries and places in the town to grab some really good food, I love that about Sidmouth, but I stick to the supermarkets for the majority of my food when I wish I didn't have to. The high street is still busy, its definitely important to get behind local businesses that give the town its identity."

Retired Anne Delta, from Ottery St Mary, frequently visits Sidmouth to make use of the numerous charity shops in the town. She said: "I think the basics like food, fuel and bills are all depressing at the moment. I have always enjoyed looking around charity shops and come to Sidmouth for that reason sometimes. I would hope that from all the negative things they may be doing a little better.