AN ambitious businessman is hoping to save the high street – and the environment – by launching a new chain of ecostores.

Derek Lloyd’s first Indie Green shop in Walton sells everything from energy-efficient lights to solar panels.

He has got solar torches you can charge your phone off, organic washing-up liquid, thermodynamic equipment and biomass boilers.

“It’s the first eco-friendly and green product store on the high street in the UK,” said Derek.

“We do everything you can think of that’s eco-friendly and there are more and more products coming in.

“You can even get a solar-powered Scalextric for Christmas.”

Even when refitting the former pawnbroker and jewellery shop, he recycled as much as possible.

“Everything apart from the counter is reused,” said Derek.

“We bought nothing apart froma bit of wood here or there – it’s all our own work using bits and bobs.”

Derek’s retail career started at Woolworths and he worked his way up through sales.

“My last role was in a call centre selling solar panels and that’s what got me into this,” said the entrepreneur.

“The plan is to have six stores in the next three years.

“As soon as this gets going, I will open one in Clacton or Colchester, and once we’ve got six running, I’ve got backing to go nationwide.”

Derek is passionate about the business.

“It’s a totally new concept,” he said.

“It is designed to bring people back to the high street and educate people about eco-efficient and green products.

“I have a passion for retail and a passion for the high street.

“I think it is so sad what has happened to our high street, although big players have come back with Sainsbury’s in Connaught Avenue and Tesco here.

“When I was young, you used to get dragged around all the high street stores by your mum and dad, and that’s what I want to see again.”