A VIRTUAL delivery service to support independent shops get back on their feet is to launch in Maldon next week.

From Tuesday, Click It Local will provide the service to residents who can buy from any participating shop and have it delivered on the same day.

From weekly food essentials, gifts, and clothes, to last-minute basics and treats, customers can buy everything they need with one payment and one delivery.

Shops already signed up to the service include Emporium On The Quay, The Waffle Bar and Maldon Coffee Company.

The scheme has been announced in partnership with Maldon District Council.

Founder of the company Steve Koch said: “Our mission is to help save high streets and independent stores across the UK by making shopping local easier and faster.”

Paul Dodson, director of strategy, performance and governance at the council, said: “Click It Local forms part of our wider Covid-19 economic recovery and transformation plan and our forthcoming ‘Keep it Local’ initiative, in partnership with Sense of Place.

“Being part of Click It Local will enable our local business owners to have their products delivered on the same day to more than 230,000 households across mid and north Essex.”