Southend entrepreneurs are being offered the chance to win a rent-free retail unit in The Victoria Centre.

The initiative, called The Bridge, is a partnership between Southend City Council, The Victoria Centre, and SaveTheHighStreet.org, aimed at giving a boost to start-ups and established businesses.

Winners will be given the keys to a 500 sq ft retail unit and will have six months of rent-free trading.

They will also receive expert support from industry professionals and the SaveTheHighStreet.org team, who will assist with business planning, forecasts, and marketing.

Centre manager at The Victoria Centre, Dennis Baldry, said: "We are delighted to host The Bridge and can see the potential it has to bring new energy to the centre and the local community.

"This initiative is very exciting, bringing in projects that will support and mentor local businesses.

"Having seen the difficulties businesses can face, I know how important it is to have this kind of support and collaboration.

"The Bridge is a great opportunity for Southend, and I’m pleased to be part of something that will make a real difference to our city."

Asset manager for Southend Council, Jonathan Mather, added: "The Bridge project perfectly illustrates why the council purchased the centre – to reinvigorate the city centre.

"We are very excited by the project which will attract new and existing customers to The Bridge, The Victoria Centre and the High Street, whilst providing opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and thrive locally."

Entrepreneurs interested in the competition can visit victoriasc.co.uk/thebridge to learn more and submit an application.