STRUGGLING retailers in Newton Abbot could soon have a £20,000 pot of cash to call on to help tidy up shabby shopfronts.

The idea is the brainchild of the town council which would offer up half the money and ask Teignbridge Council to match it.

The message: Newton Abbot is open for business.

The Shop Improvement Scheme was debated in the town hall on Wednesday night.

A report by clerk Phil Rowe and town development manager Sally Henley was presented to the finance and resources committee, recommending that the investment be made.