Ryde's Barrow Boys urging Isle of Wight to shop local

That is the message from a Ryde greengrocer's business which is feeling the pinch.

Family run Barrow Boys on Ryde High Street has been trading for more than 20 years, and went out of its way to adapt for customers' needs during lockdown.

However, since lockdown ended people have flocked back to supermarkets, seeing their trade decline.

Read more: Campaign launched to buy local Isle of Wight produce — and 'try something new'

Barrow Boys in Ryde stocks a wide range of fresh produce

Leslie Schaverien, of Barrow Boys, said: "We feel despondent because during lockdown we were helping people to get fresh fruit and vegetables delivered to their door while observing government guidelines.

"Customers said they would stick with us but now trade has dropped off drastically and the High Street itself has become very quiet.

"We are still doing free home deliveries across the Island for anyone spending more than £8 and orders can be made on our website for those not wanting to venture out.

"I would urge people to shop locally to keep independent enterprises alive."

Barrow Boys has seen customer numbers drop since the end of lockdown. Photo credit: Nina Plapp Bone.

Barrow Boys is a family business, which Leslie helps to run alongside sons James and Thomas.

They often catch a 1.30am boat from the Island in order to collect fresh produce from markets in Southampton and Heathrow, and to ensure the products they sell are of the highest standard.

Barrow Boys' website offers vegetable and fruit boxes for those wanting fresh fare without having to select individual items.