POTTSVILLE'S Newsagent will encourage local shopping with Christmas gifts and cheer today.

Owner of the family business Julie McDowell said it had just switched from John Sands to Hallmark gift cards and would celebrate by rewarding customers.

"There'll be competitions, prizes, giveaways and sample Hallmark cards to hand out," Ms McDowell said.

"The big Lotto ($4 million jackpot) is on Saturday too, plus Hallmark's Forever Friend Bear will be there."

Also, prizes for Pottsville Primary and other children would be drawn for the colouring competition the newsagent hosted.

"While we've got people in the area for Christmas all local shops are keen to keep the shopping local," she said.

"We'll do in-store specials, offer the chance to win a Christmas hamper when you buy a card and cafe Eatz next door will offer a free biscuit with every coffee."

After nine years stocking John Sands' cards, the local shopkeeper said she switched to Hallmark because of its "better product and price range, as you can get beautiful hand-made expensive ones or smaller, cheaper ones".

The loyal local newsagent, owned by Ms McDowell for the past 10 years, is active in the community year round.

It sponsored the Cabarita Raiders junior rugby league and "donates all the time to anyone that asks" such as the golf club, primary and pre-school, she said.

Today's festivities run from about 10am to 2pm at Shop 4 and 5, 1 Coronation Ave.

Call 02 6676 1205.