HIGH street businesses are opening their doors next week for late night Christmas shoppers.

Shops along Maldon High Street will be staying open later on Thursdays during November and December to encourage residents to "keep it local".

Customers can take advantage of the free town centre parking available from 2pm - with businesses closing at 8pm - and get their festive shopping done early.

Allison Gray, director of Willow & Fox and chair of Maldon Business Board, said: "With Christmas being in lockdown last year, high street businesses want to make this year extra special.

"So many of the independent businesses are keeping their doors open until 8pm every Thursday evening throughout November and December.

"This runs in conjunction with the free parking from 2pm on Thursdays that Maldon District Council have provided to support us.

"During the December evenings we hope to have carol singers along the high street too to create some festive cheer.

"We really hope people will be excited about Christmas this year and we look forward to welcoming you into our high street shops and eateries.

"We'd really love the bigger chain shops to open too and for as many businesses as possible to join in.

"We are all so grateful to the public for supporting us post lockdown and we hope you'll continue to shop local this Christmas."

Some of the businesses launching their late Thursday night opening times next week include:

  • Willow & Fox
  • Maldon Books
  • SILO
  • Crystal Shack
  • Chic Petit
  • Just the Thing
  • Ruby & Rose
  • Mrs Salisbury's
  • Dante's
  • Read & Simpson Jewellers
  • Miss Rachel Holland
  • The Maldon Christmas Shop
  • The Bra Consultancy

Other shops will join in later in the month and throughout December.

Allison is also encouraging more high street businesses to join in and open their doors for late night shopping.

Shoppers can also join in with this year's spot the reindeer competition.