OTLEY's MP has voiced his backing for a website that is helping people 'shop local'.

ShopAppy, which launched in Otley and Saltaire last November, lets shoppers select and reserve goods from local stores and pick them up from a single collection point.

The initiative has attracted national interest and in January was featured, along with some Otley businesses, on the BBC's The One Show.

MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) said: "The strength of Otley as an independent market town makes it a perfect launch location for a service such as ShopAppy.

"It is great to see that the collective impact of small businesses in the town can be used to take on the large supermarkets, supporting traders and providing consumers with more choice.

"I was delighted to meet ShopAppy founder Jackie Mulligan and hear her plans to expand the service through the town and further afield.

"I hope to see the website go from strength to strength as more people use it."

Ms Mulligan added: "ShopAppy will give every independent in every local town a 24-hour shop window, doesn’t take commission on sales and encourages shoppers to look at what amazing things are on their doorstep.

"It is great to have convenience but it is also great when you feel good about where you shop."

The Otley Tavern has made itself available as a drop-off and collection point for ShopAppy orders.

Landlord Peter Jackson said: "This is a great local business I am happy to support, which promotes shopping locally.

"This is something Otley Chamber of Trade has been promoting for years, so it is fantastic to see such an enthusiastic take-up of the service."