Businesses along Maldon High Street are set to open their doors to customers for late night shopping this year, in efforts to make this Christmas special for residents after a challenging year.

Starting from next week, shops will stay open until 8pm every Thursday - with more joining the initiative as the weeks progress.

There will also be free parking in all town centre car parks every Thursday from 2pm throughout November and December, starting next week (Thursday 4 November).

Allison Gray, who owns Willow & Fox on the High Street, said: "With Christmas being in lockdown last year, High Street businesses want to make this year extra special.

"So many of the independent businesses are keeping their doors open until 8pm every Thursday evening throughout November and December.

"This runs in conjunction with the free parking from 2pm on Thursdays that Maldon District Council has provided to support us."

Businesses which will open their doors to late night shoppers from next Thursday (4 November) are Willow & Fox, Bra Consultancy, Maldon Books, SILO, Crystal Shack, Chic Petit, Just the Thing, Ruby & Rose, Mrs Salisburys, Dantes, Read & Simpson Jewellers, Miss Rachel Holland and The Maldon Christmas Shop.

Others will join later in the month and throughout December.

There will also be entertainment to get shoppers into the festive spirit.

Allison said: "During the Thursday December evenings, we hope to have carol singers along the High Street too to create some festive cheer.

"We really hope people will be excited about Christmas this year and we look forward to welcoming you into our High Street shops and eateries."

All High Street businesses are encouraged to join in and open their doors.

Allison said: "We'd really love the bigger chain shops to open too and for as many businesses as possible to join in.

"We're all so grateful to the public for supporting us post-lockdown and we hope you'll continue to shop local this Christmas."