More than 100 new businesses have signed up to the Virtual High Street as the site launches in Hadleigh and Stowmarket, joining over 130 already signed up to the platform in Sudbury.

Shoppers can benefit from even more ways to shop local at a range of high street stores, independent retailers, market stalls, services providers as well as cafes and restaurants.

Customers will be able to visit their local shops online to browse stock, place orders and arrange click and collect or a delivery from home or on the move.

Over the past 18 months, the way many people are shopping has changed and the desire to shop local and support local businesses has increased.

The aim of the Virtual High Street is to bring the local high street and market stalls into the homes of customers before they visit the high street in person, making shopping local and supporting local businesses even easier.

For residents in Hadleigh, more than 55 businesses including Ferguson's Delicatessen, Cobbler Café and Wine Bar, Andrew's Quality Butchers and EriVica Cakes are all signed up as well as accommodation providers such as Holbeck House B&B and The Gables B&B.

A localised feature of the Virtual High Street is the ability to access to market stalls in Hadleigh such as Vegelicious.

Matt McQueen, owner of Papillon Menswear in Hadleigh said: "I love the fact I can interact with my customers directly, offering a bespoke service. Customers can contact me, check stock availability, or arrange free local delivery if required. Interacting directly with your customers is one of the advantages small independent businesses have over large corporate chains. The VHS will enable me to connect with a wider audience, ensuring I continue to offer the best service possible."

The first Virtual High Street was built upon a concept launched in Sudbury in March 2020 after Sudbury Town Council identified an opportunity to support businesses during the first unprecedented national lockdown. In October, following investment from Babergh, the platform was relaunched with additional functionality and welcomed more than 100 businesses within the first month.