LITTLE books of offers have been big business for retailers in Darlington – reportedly boosting their takings by tens of thousands of pounds.

The books are given out by business improvement company Distinct Darlington and contain vouchers for discounts on purchases and services from a wide variety of town centre shops, salons, pubs and restaurants.

Distinct Darlington says the latest edition of the book, copies of which are handed out free to shoppers every quarter, has been the most successful yet – netting £38,586 for the 28 traders who took part.

The latest book contained vouchers to be used against services and purchases from both independent stores and high street chains.

Also among the retailers who took part was shoe retailer Hotter, in Northgate, which offered shoppers ten per cent off its range of men’s and women’s shoes.

Assistant manager Claire Beaumont said: “It was the first time we’d been involved, but we’d definitely do it again.

“We kept a pile of the books beside the till so customers could take them and take advantage of the discount and the effect it had on our takings was considerable.”

Distinct Darlington manager Alex Hirst said: “The little books are hugely popular, not only do they offer bargains and discounts to shoppers but, as this last edition has proved, they also bring real benefits to businesses.”

The next edition of the will be available from November 1 from the box office in Darlington’s Cornmill Centre and Dolphin Centre reception, or from town centre traders.

Vouchers must be redeemed by the end of December.

It can also be downloaded from distinctdarlington.co.uk/downloads