A CLICK and collect service set up to help small businesses across the Maldon district is preparing to launch later this month.

Click It Local, an online platform set up to provide residents with same-day delivery of products from nearby shops, has joined forces with Maldon District Council.

The launch date is set for April 20 and any independent businesses on and off the high street can apply to get involved with the scheme.

Paul Dodson, director of strategy, performance and governance, 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 business owners to have their products delivered on the same day to more than 230,000 residents across mid and north Essex.

Founder Steve Koch said “Click It Local is a virtual high street that enables residents to buy from any independent shop and have it delivered straight to their door on the same day.

“Our mission is to help save high streets and independent stores across the UK by making shopping local easier and faster.”

A virtual open day will take place this afternoon (April 6) from 1.30pm.

For more details, email michael@clickitlocal.co.uk.