MALDON is to take part in the Totally Locally Fiver Fest this month – giving shoppers the chance to grab a bargain and support the town's independent shops at the same time.

Starting on Saturday (10 October) and ending on Saturday, 24 October, Fiver Fest involves local businesses running special offers for just £5.

Totally Locally is a worldwide organisation operating in countries all over the globe, with the aim of boosting local economies through independent traders and community-focussed spending.

Any businesses that haven't yet signed up can get on board with Fiver Fest now

Totally Locally Fiver Fest in Maldon has come about thanks to the collaborative efforts of Allison Gray, owner of Willow & Fox in Quest Place, and Michael Bloomfield, owner of Thync Creative in Bright's Path, who are urging independent businesses in the town that haven't already done so to sign up to the initiative.

We spoke to Allison and Michael as they put the finishing touchers to their Fiver Fest posters and plans.

Allison said: "As a local high street business owner myself I realise how important it is to encourage the public to shop locally especially during these difficult times.

"We have some great independent businesses in Maldon and this campaign should really help highlight them. I personally love Maldon, I live here, my business is here and I don't shop anywhere else unless I can't find what I need here in Maldon. As one of the organisers and as the owner of Willow & Fox ladies clothing and gift shop I'm excited to run the campaign with Mike and to take part."

Michael added: "Having run an independent digital agency for the last five years, I have built up a client base made up of mostly small local businesses. It's always such a pleasure to help my clients grow, I can see the value each one adds to this old market town of ours.

"When I moved here three years ago and opened my first office, I just fell in love with the community, buildings and heritage it has. So much so that last year I started "Around Maldon" together with Allison in order to spread the word and showcase our local businesses. It's exciting to be launching our first High Street campaign "Fiver Fest" which sees many towns across the UK promote their own independents and put money back into the local economy."

Businesses interested in taking part or wanting to find out more can visit the Around Maldon website here.