In a bid to help boost pre-Christmas business - and give Dorchester shoppers a break in these hard times - Dorset Council has announced there will be will be free parking on three days in the run up to Christmas.

To encourage residents to support local businesses by shopping locally and attending events, free parking will be available on Saturday, 26 November, Saturday,  3 December (Small Business Saturday) and Saturday, 15 December.

The following car parks are included: Acland Road, Durngate Street, Fairfield, Old Market, Top O Town, Trinity Street (south) and Wollaston Field

Cllr Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment said: "Shopping locally is a great way to cut down the mileage and support Dorset's superb range of local businesses.

"For something different, why not take a look at what our fabulous independent businesses have to offer and shop locally this year."

Other providers, such as town councils, may also offer free parking in the run-up to Christmas, so drivers are encouraged to check the car park's charges boards/ticket machines for details.