It's Small Business Saturday tomorrow (4 December), and residents are being encouraged to enjoy a range of bargains on offer across the Maldon district to support local businesses.

Maldon District Council and Visit Maldon District, which promotes the area, have organised the event to urge shoppers to stay local as the crucial festive trading season begins.

In the run-up to the event, Visit Maldon District has been spotlighting local businesses on its Facebook page to promote what they offer.

It is part of the Small Business Saturday UK initiative - a grassroots and non-commercial campaign which takes place across the country to drive support for small local businesses and celebrate the contribution they make to communities and the economy.

The Maldon district businesses taking part in the campaign are as follows:

• Maeldune Heritage Centre: Open as usual for visitor and tourist information.

• Read & Simpson: Jewellery cleaning products on sale for £5 (usually £17).

• Bridal Reloved Maldon: 10 per cent discount on all wedding dresses and veils.

• Woof & Co - 10 per cent discount on all purchases.

• Emporium On The Quay: Open as usual with items from over 20 local businesses.

• Just The Thing Ltd - 20 per cent discount on all Eve Victoria products.

• The Card Company: Open as usual for gift and special occasion greeting cards.

• Dawn Interiors: Limited edition Christmas cushions for £8.

• Maldon Books: Second anniversary of the shop opening.

• LA Beauty & La Nails: Open as usual for nail and beauty treatments.

• The Bra Consultancy: Open in their new shop with expanded stock.

• Grey Soft Furnishings: Free Sophie Allport Christmas decoration with any purchase over £30.

• Koala Chess Art: Online shop only.