Young entrepreneur Ross Machin from Great Wyrley, Staffordshire is doing his bit for local traders with The Big Red Card, a local-based discount card available via the Big Red Card website.

The card, priced at £10 for a 12-month period, gives its users discounts at various shops, bars and restaurants around the Cannock and Stafford area. Just a few of the businesses include Bank Bar & Lounge, Couture Nightclub Stafford, Bar Sport, Frankie & Benny's, The Dilshad and Electric Palace picture house.

Since graduating from Staffordshire University last year the business-minded 23 year-old has also set up companies including Fresh Talk Media and Community Screens, it is here he has formed his client base and hopes to expand the card across the country to encourage buyers to support local traders in their area.

Ross told us: 

"It is completely free for businesses so not only will it benefit them but also the consumer. While I was a student it was very apparent how popular student discount cards were and it was then I realised there is nothing like this available for everyone else, who are just as deserving consumers. 

I have great hopes that The Big Red Card can and will expand beyond Cannock and Stafford  and eventually help businesses across the UK during a very difficult time against larger retailers."