THE two Maldon businesswomen who are opening their summer pop-up shops at the Prom this morning (Saturday, 17 July) for the very first time are hoping they will help boost the High Street, too, by telling visitors to the park about our many independent shops.

Olivia Rosenthall of Maldon Books and Lucie Walker-Hutt of Silo were awarded a joint Pride of Maldon Award earlier this year and are excited to be opening The Book Hut and the Silo marquee by the amphitheatre at the park, close to the lake, at 10am today.

Lucie told Nub News: "We are really looking forward to being down at the Prom for the summer. I live a five-minute walk away from the Prom and spend so much of my time there as it's a wonderful resource.

"It's great to be doing this with Maldon Books. Olivia and I share similar business values and both shops work well together to give a small taste of the High Street to the Prom.

"We will be telling everyone about our brilliant High Street and all of the wonderful independent shops in the hope that it will channel people back into town."

About her stall, Lucie added: "We are of course keeping it eco-friendly and have geared it to what people will want at the Prom such as sunscreen, toys, picnic gear and snacks while of course showcasing lots of locally-made produce."

The Book Hut will is celebrating opening day with local author Jake Tyler cutting the ribbon and signing copies of his fantastic book 'A Walk From the Wild Edge.'

Writer James Henry will also arrive at 2pm for another book signing, with both events free and no booking necessary. James, author of the Essex-based DI Nicholas Lowry series, will be signing copies of his latest novel, Whitethroat.

Olivia said: ""We will be there all summer long, right through to September, selling books for both adults and children, as well as a selection of reduced titles. The plan is to be open seven days a week."

"We're really looking forward to seeing everyone and I think the main thing is the excitement of being able to offer visitors to the Prom something a little bit different."