RESIDENTS are raving about a quirky milkshake shop in Braintree's town centre.

As part of the #BDHiddenGems project, The Times was interested to find out what readers and visitors loved about the district.

A number of responses indicated a top favourite was Shake Express, at the end of the High Street.

Although small, the independent milkshake shop has some big flavours- from Marmite to Mars Bar, the list is quite extensive.

As well as making fabulous milkshakes, staff make it their mission to raise money for local charities.

They have recently raised £83 for Essex Dementia Care, which is a commendable effort.

Their mission is to add a little more fun to everyone's lives, and by offering an exciting mix they most certainly do that.

Resident Sophia Grant voted for Shake Express as her hidden gem.

She said on Facebook: "They use proper ingredients, definitely the best tasting coffees there too, so much better than Costa."

Francesco Manfredi, another resident, said: "Shake Express is a hidden gem.

"They do all the milkshakes under the sun."

Times reporter Katherine Palmer, who is investigating the district's Hidden Gems, said milkshakes went down particularly well in the office.

She said: "Milkshake Fridays have become a regular event here at The Times, it is a privilege to be working on the doorstep of such a creative business.

"The great thing is nothing is too much trouble, they can put together any order, however complicated.

"Also, if your favourite chocolate bar isn't already on the menu, staff welcome any new suggestions.

"It is great to see shoppers and residents appreciate their work as much as we do."

With summer well on its way, grabbing a milkshake is starting to sound like the perfect end to a shopping trip.