Skipton is bucking the national high street trend with virtually no empty shops and a high percentage of independent retailers, according to a new survey.

Figures for October show just 2.3 per cent of ground-floor units in the town were vacant. That compares to a Yorkshire and North East average of 11.4 per cent and a national average of 11.1 per cent.

It means that while many high streets struggle, with rows of boarded-up units, Skipton has one of the highest occupancy rates in the country.

The Association of Town Centre Managers survey also found that the vast majority of Skipton’s shops – 87 per cent – were independent, compared to the Yorkshire and North East average of 46.7 per cent and the national average of 44.6 per cent.

Brett Butler, Skipton town manager, said: “This is great news for Skipton and proves that in this tough economic climate we really are weathering the storm of the ever-changing landscape. Well done to everyone who contributes to making our town the success it is today.

“Our town can’t just rest on its laurels though, and support by residents and the public are needed more than ever now, as well as our tourism. I urge you to go and shop locally this Christmas to buy your gifts and also the other festive treats needed for this year’s holiday period.

“We also have plenty of new events in store for next year, which include the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, an Olympic torch event, plus securing the fact that Skipton will host Yorkshire Day in 2013 will bring big business to the area. All these things help our town to remain vibrant and in good stead for the future.”