Businesses in Maldon are 'ready to safely open' ahead of tomorrow.

Bob Boyce, chairman of Maldon District Council, said: "The council has been working hard with the business community and our partners to ensure that they were ready to safely reopen their businesses.

"I am delighted to welcome the community back to our businesses across the District and I hope that after such a difficult time for them, they will all gradually see shoots of recovery.

"I would urge residents to support our local businesses and help them through what is still a challenging time for them."

Maldon District Council is supporting the ‘Sense of Place’ initiative to “Keep it local”, encouraging residents and businesses to spend locally and support local business.

Mayor of Maldon Flo Shaughnessy said: "I am really pleased to join our business community in Maldon to welcome everyone back to our beautiful town.

"I hope that this will be the beginning of our high street recovery and although the shopping, eating and drinking experience will be different for a while, I do hope that we will gradually see everyone once again, supporting our high street."

Burnham mayor Wendy Stamp said; "It has been a very difficult time for our local businesses, but we have seen fantastic examples of community spirit.

"As more shops, pubs and restaurants are able to open up, in line with Government safe working guidelines, I hope local people will support our independent businesses and confidence will return to our High Street."

The current situation has demonstrated the amazing spirit of local people and businesses to work together and support each other. As high streets and local businesses start to open up we feel it is vital that we continue to work together."