TRADERS are being given the chance to open rent-free shops in the centre of Liskeard.

The initiative has been put forward by Mary Portas, high street guru, who is concerned at the number of empty shops.

Optomen Television will be filming for Channel 4 as the inititive gets under way.

Mary's team writes: 'When important properties in the middle of high streets are empty it pulls down the attractiveness and desirability of the street.

'Bringing empty properties back into use is one of the biggest challenges for communities all over the country, and Cornwall is no different. Mary and her team are working towards securing a number of empty units in Liskeard town centre for a three-to-12-month period, rent free. They are scouring the region for people who might be interested in setting up a shop or trying out a new idea in Liskeard.

'At this stage we are keen to gauge potential interest and will consider any and all ideas. Send your details and an outline of your idea to: maryinliskeard

@optomen.com'