RESIDENTS can start ordering from their favourite local restaurants as food delivery service Deliveroo officially launches in Dorchester today.

According to Deliveroo, 15 eateries and takeaways have already signed up to its service. Deliveroo will also be working with independent businesses like Rajpoot Restaurant, Taste Brasserie and Cow & Apple, as well as popular high street favourites like Wagamama, Nandos and KFC.

Grocery retailers and convenience stores like Co-op have also joined the service, which will help people self-isolating who cannot get to the shops.

To celebrate the launch, Deliveroo is giving customers 20 per cent off orders for the next eight weeks from participating restaurants.

The launch will be a major boost to small restaurant businesses across Dorchester who will be able to reach new customers and grow their restaurant businesses through offering delivery.

Charlotte Spracklen, centre manager at Brewery Square, said: “We are delighted that more of our restaurants are helping accommodate a growing appetite for takeaway services across Dorchester. Nando’s, Wagamama, and Creams Café will be kicking off the new Deliveroo service on Wednesday, with Zizzi launching their new service on Friday. Our businesses at Brewery Square are committed to going above and beyond for their customers to ensure they can still enjoy their fantastic services while Covid restrictions remain in place.”

The food delivery company will continue to add new local restaurants, takeaways and convenience stores to the platform over the coming months. Head to www.restaurants.deliveroo.com/en-gb/ to become a Deliveroo partner.

Harrison Foster, regional director in the UK, said: "Launching in Dorchester is a key milestone for Deliveroo. Dorchester has a thriving foodie community and a wide range of restaurants and retailers, so we’re excited to connect them. We look forward to working with our new partners to reach a new customer base and expand their businesses. Deliveroo will also create work for up to 50 local riders and we are thrilled to offer a flexible role to the community.”

The service launched in Weymouth earlier this year and created 50 jobs in the area. The service said up to 50 more riders can join their Dorchester operation too. To apply, head to the Deliveroo website.

Full list of restaurants joining Deliveroo (With more restaurants to join in the coming weeks):

• Wagamama

• Nandos

• KFC

• Zizzi

• Subway

• Creams

• Co-op

• Rajpoot Restaurant

• Taste Brasserie

• Cow & Apple

• Masala

• Souvlaki & More

• The Court House Bistro

• Onestop

• The Spice Centre