A leading Maldon businesswoman has spoken out about how Black Friday is giving some of the large chain stores yet another chance to sweep trade away from local independent shops.

The chair of Maldon Business Board, Allison Gray, said: "When it comes to Black Friday, the small independents cannot compete with big chain stores, many of whom have been allowed to remain open.

"We don't have the purchasing power to enable us to offer such discounts and our profit margins are much smaller.

"Instead, we ensure that we always keep our prices competitive and throughout the year we will be working together to offer different incentives. A great example of one that we've already done, is Fiver Fest which worked well for all involved."

"So, in a nutshell the majority of the independent businesses are opting out of Black Friday. Having been closed for a large proportion of the year we have already taken a huge financial blow. We hope the public understands and still wish to support us and we will promote any new initiatives as and when they happen."

Maldon High Street shops are looking forward to the late-night festive Thursdays ahead

Ms Gray's comments come days before many High Street shops and businesses get the chance to open their doors to shoppers again, having had to close under national restrictions for the past month. Maldon town centre will get straight back into the swing of the festive season, with late night shopping every Thursday until 7pm in the run-up to Christmas. There will be free town centre parking on Thursdays from 2pm, too, starting on 3 December and going right through to 14 January.

Ms Gray added: "No-one could have predicted the effect of Covid-19 on our community and local businesses, however, we have seen great things happen to keep the local high street going.

"We've seen shops and food services adapting how they operate, takeaway services, setting up websites, click and collect and free delivery to our community. Our local independent shops and businesses have worked so hard to keep their businesses afloat and spent a great deal of money on PPE to ensure their premises are Covid secure. Hairdressers, barbers, beauticians, osteopaths and podiatry clinics in our high street have made huge adaptations. Keeping our customers and staff safe is of the utmost importance.

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"We are open for late night Christmas shopping on Thursdays in conjunction with the free council parking from 2pm and many shops will stay open until 7pm. For those who don't feel confident to venture out just yet then please check out our websites for Christmas gifts. You'll find free local delivery offers and a speedy service that matches the likes of the big chains and in some cases even beats Amazon."