Maldon Morrisons is opening its café to community groups as a meeting space free of charge that could save them up to £1,000.

The new service is available to any group from new parents, charities, book clubs, and craft groups to gaming communities.

The plan is designed to help community groups deal with the increasing cost of booking meeting spaces in local centres.

Research revealed that local groups typically spend up to £20 an hour on meet up spaces.

Helen Tordoff, Head of Cafes at Morrisons, said: “We’ve seen more groups use our café spaces as meet up areas, so we’re delighted to formalise the offering.

“It will make it even easier for local communities to come together over a cup of tea and great food.”

Rachel Taylor, member of Horsforth Craft Group, said: “Some community centres can be tricky to book as costs can be quite high and there is limited availability.

“Our local Morrisons café is perfect as it is free to book and there’s always good food and drink available.

“We meet there regularly to create our craft masterpieces and would encourage any other clubs to consider Morrisons as an affordable and pleasant place to meet.”

Meet up areas will be available in Morrisons Maldon’s café between 9am until 11 am and 2pm until café closing every weekday.

For more information visit: www.morrisons.com.