A MOBILE phone app which offers exclusive discounts in shops, cafes and pubs across Herefordshire has launched.

Herefordshire Council awarded a £61,500 contract to Loyal Free for the mobile app for use across Herefordshire, but not the city of Hereford itself.

The decision notice from the council said Hereford Business Improvement District already had the app available, so the city was not be covered by the deal.

The decision to award the three-year contract said the council recognised the "crucial role" towns and high streets had in the economy and community.

"Providing support to our market towns and high streets to enable recovery as soon as possible is therefore one of the council's immediate priorities," it said.

Herefordshire Council hoped it would help support economic recovery in the county by encouraging people to stay, shop and spend locally across market towns and villages.

Councillor Ellie Chowns, cabinet member for environment and economy, said: “The introduction of the LoyalFree app by Herefordshire Council will help support and strengthen economic recovery across the county.

"The app, which is free to use for residents, visitors and businesses, is a great way to encourage people to shop locally and the boost in footfall will significantly help our high streets and local retailers.

"For businesses, it is quick and easy to add your details onto the app, to help attract additional customers, as we continue to recover from the pandemic.”

Councillor Pauline Crockett, cabinet member for health and adult wellbeing, said: “I’m delighted the LoyalFree app is now available across Herefordshire.

"Not only will it give our local economy a much needed boost, but it will also help individuals, couples and families to get out and about and enjoy more of what our beautiful county has to offer.

"As more of us are likely to be staying closer to home this summer, there’s a fantastic range of trails and events to discover, so you can enjoy the perfect staycation in Herefordshire.”

Businesses wanting to use the app should email info@loyalfree.co.uk.