A shopping centre is to offer customers the chance to refill their water bottles free of charge in several outlets.

Freeport Braintree has launched its Refill Me initiative, as part of the centre's ongoing efforts to go green.

Seven brands have already signed up for the scheme - Costa Coffee, Starbucks, Thornton’s, BB’s, Bill's, Pizza Express and Wildwood.

Josef O'Sullivan, centre manager at Freeport Braintree, said: "We are thrilled to be taking part in the Refill Me programme which will hopefully help towards protecting our great planet.

“We also hope the new scheme will help people to stay hydrated throughout the warmer summer months and encourage people to opt for a healthier alternative.”

For more information, visit www.freeport-braintree.com.