Staff and customers at Maldon's refill eco shop are working together to show their appreciation for frontline workers.

Silo, in Bright's Path, are putting together hampers for frontline health workers as a practical way of thanking them for their critical work for the local community - and now customers can donate, too.

Owner Lucie Walker-Hutt said: "The idea came from a wonderful customer who wanted to give a gift to a friend working in intensive care. We thought that it would be lovely to offer up this idea to everyone."

Silo already help customers who are shielding, self-isolating or unable to leave home during the pandemic by making regular deliveries of essential foodstuffs to Maldon, Heybridge, Danbury and the Dengie.

Now customers visiting Silo's website can also contribute towards a hamper of snacks and treats put together by Silo's staff. Hampers will be delivered

initially to local hospitals and paramedics.

"But, we welcome suggestions of other workplaces for frontline heroes", said Lucie.

Customers can select an amount that they wish to donate through the website. Silo staff pack the hampers, and add an extra 10 per cent from the shop before arranging delivery.

Lucie added: "We have stayed open throughout the pandemic, by adapting the shop, creating a website for on-line shopping, and we have been making deliveries since the first lockdown in March.

"We're a well-oiled machine and raring to go with this new initiative."

To make a donation visit the Silo Maldon website here.