Christmas shoppers are being offered ’free parking after three’ in borough council car parks across West Devon to tempt them to stay local to buy gifts for loved ones.

There will be free festive parking after 3pm on Thursdays and Fridays throughout December in Tavistock’s car parks at Abbey, Bedford, Riverside, Brook Street, Chapel Street, The Wharf, Russell Street and Bank Square.

In Okehampton, meanwhile, the Mill Road car park will also be ’free after three’ as are the car parks in Chagford and Hatherleigh. Okehampton Town Council is also offering free parking at Simmons Park car park after 3pm on weekdays and all day on Saturdays throughout December.

And in North Tawton the two town council-owned car parks are free all the time to allow visitors time to explore the shops.

Cllr Peter Crozier, lead member for economy for West Devon Borough Council, said it was ’wonderful’ to see the businesses gearing up for the Christmas season and residents out and about supporting the local economy.

’Our retailers and businesses across the sectors need our ongoing support, so I’d like to encourage residents and visitors to continue to buy local.

’There is free parking on offer at our car parks, so you don’t need to worry about rushing back to your cars. So relax and enjoy the lights, music, food and shopping. ’

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"To keep everyone safe, please remember to get regular Covid lateral flow tests, wash your hands or use hand sanitiser. Ideally, wear a face covering because cases are on the rise and nobody wants restrictions again.

"Most of all though, have a great time."