Earlier in the autumn I was involved along with Hugh from Harringay online in setting up a local “cashmob”. A cashmob, for those unfamiliar with the term is an interesting new way for people to act together in support of independent local businesses. This “shop local” movement emerged in New York about a year ago. Many of you will have heard about 'flash mobs' - groups of people, who assemble suddenly in a place, perform an unusual and fun activity and then disperse.

A cash mob is similar. It's a group of people who arrange to support a local business that could use the trade. They meet at an agreed time, spend an agreed amount and usually link a social activity for those involved, like all going for a drink, or a coffee together. The purpose is primarily to support valued local businesses and also to provide another chance for locals to meet up in a fun environment.

The first Haringey cashmob supported the traders at Harringay Market where over 70 people turned up (in the rain!) and the idea has spread across North London and elsewhere.

We’ve planned the next Haringey Cash mob for Sunday December 16th at the Big Green Bookshop, Brampton Park Road N22 just off Wood Green High Road.

This much loved independent bookshop run by Simon and Tim is a centre for all sorts of local activity – from author talks, children’s events, comedy nights, board games, knitting and so much more.

Not resting on their much deserved laurels BGB has plans to run a Wood Green Literary festival during 2013. Yet its public recognition is far wider than us local folks – recently the Independent newspaper identified the Big Green Bookshop as number two in the UKs Best Bookshops.

So as a practical way to show support for the type of local independent business we all want in our high streets a cash mob will assemble on the afternoon of Sunday December 16th between 2:00 pm and 2:30pm with a commitment to spend £10 at the Big Green Bookshop – there will be a chance to meet with your neighbours, buy some great Christmas presents and have some fun. After we’ll be going for a coffee to compare purchases and have a chat.

Please pass on the message to your friends via Twitter, Facebook. e-mail and pigeon post – use the hashtag #BGBcashmob so we can track the coverage. And please keep in touch by posting photographs of your purchases and book reviews online after the event.

If you can’t make the half hour slot 2-2:30pm, then nip into BGB anytime on Sunday 16th and tell Simon and Tim the Cashmob sent you!

We would like to drum up a bit more support – maybe with some leafleting –please get in touch if you can help in any way, provide additional entertainment or have any other ideas to support the Big Green Bookshop cashmob.