Residents could earn loyalty points for using local shops in a groundbreaking new scheme.

Eastbourne Borough Council says plans are at an embryonic stage to create an Eastbourne Card to encourage residents to spend their disposable income where they live.

The council believes that this could be the first scheme of its kind in the country when it is launched.

The scheme is aimed to reduce “leakage” out of the local area and into other economies along the South Coast and in London.

Shoppers could earn discounts at local retailers and build up loyalty points that will entitle them to discounts at restaurants and theatres.