More than 7,000 discount cards for shops in Braintree and Witham have been handed out.

The Indi Card, organised by Braintree Council and supported by the Times, encourages residents to shop locally and more than 50 businesses have signed up so far.

Cards will be handed out in Newlands Shopping Centre, Witham, on December 8 from 10am to 3pm and in Halstead High Street on December 1 from 10am to 3pm.

They are also available from the Times office and participating shops.