A couple from Stoke Newington have launched a discount card and membership club encouraging customers to support the borough’s independent businesses.

Basil and Jenna Fansa are charging £12 for annual membership to the Local Buyers Club. In return, users get discounts of between 10 per cent and 50pc at shops, restaurants and cafes like Andi’s Restaurant, Wolf, Rio Cinema, Off Broadway and Push Cycles.

Basil said: “Local and independent businesses are the lifeblood of our communities – they give our high streets character and vibrancy and are vital to local economies. By sharing their stories and negotiating great discounts, we’re helping to generate business and customer loyalty.”

Hackney Food Bank has been chosen a one of the club’s charities of the year and in its first two months of trading the scheme has donated the equivalent of 400 meals to people living in poverty.

Great British Menu judge Andi Oliver, of Andi’s restaurant, said: “Joining something like the LBC, which links up local businesses so we all support each other and customers support us, goes to the heart of our ethics.”