MALDON district's local hospice is to hold its Christmas shopping event online this year to raise vital fund in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Farleigh Hospice will use money raised from the event to support people living with a life-limiting illness or bereavement in the area.

From Monday, 9 November to Sunday, 22 November, shoppers can go online and with a simple click of the button uncover that perfect Christmas gift, with over 100 different nationwide brands and local guest brands, including small mid-Essex businesses selling local produce and goods.

Shoppers will find Italian clothing, stunning jewellery from independent designers, food and drink hampers, beauty products, personalised gifts, homeware, luxury leatherwear, bespoke stationery, and unique gifts for little ones and the treasured family pet. This one-stop-shop enables shoppers to peruse the site, select their purchases, and pay for them all in one checkout.

Every stallholder at the online event has agreed to donate 10 per cent of all their takings to the hospice. This money will be used to enable the hospice to continue to provide care within its Inpatient Unit, bereavement support, Hospice at Home, and support for families and carers.

Alison Stevens, Chief Executive of Farleigh Hospice said: "Our annual shopping event is always popular and helps generate much-needed funds for the charity.

"Due to the pandemic, we have moved the event online, however this year we have over 100 stallholders supporting the event, plus local independent businesses. It's the perfect way to buy all your Christmas presents and raise vital funds for the hospice, all from the comfort of your own home."

The online hospice shop can be found here. after it open on 9 November.