SHOPPERS will be able to take advantage of free parking during the festive period thanks to Malvern Hills District Council.

The council is offering free parking in all of its car parks all day on Saturdays throughout December.

The offer has been introduced to encourage shopping locally during the festive season.

Traders across the district took part in a poll to decide which days they would prefer the free parking and the majority of the vote was for all day on Saturdays.

Visitors are also being encouraged to take advantage of the events on offer across the three towns.

There are also festive events on offer such as the Great Malvern Farmers’ Market on 18 December, carol performances on 19 and 24 December in Upton and more.

Cllr Daniel Walton, portfolio holder for tourism and economic development, said: "We are keen to attract shoppers and support local businesses across the three towns during the festive period.

"Free parking plays a role in bringing extra trade during this important time for retailers and we hope it will encourage everyone to support their local traders and our town centres."

Shoppers are encouraged to follow Government guidelines and to wear masks in shops and public transport.

Visit www.visitthemalverns.org/christmas for more information about the festive events on offer across the district this month.