A Tiptree optician hopes to drum up support for independent shops and businesses.

David Russell Opticians, of Church Road, is taking part in Community Opticians’ Week, launching on Monday.

The week’s aim is to encourage people to visit their local optician during the week, which runs until August 1, and visit locals shops and businesses on the high street at the same time.

Local MP Priti Patel supports the initiative saying: “Local shops are the backbone of our communities and the heart of our high streets, shopping locally allows the diverse selection of independent businesses the opportunity to compete with bigger stores and online retailers.”