A town is trying to boost festive trade by giving all shoppers free evening parking in the run up to Christmas.

All council-run car parks in Tunbridge Wells will waive charges from Thursday, December 17 to Wednesday, December 23 after 4pm.

The measure supports a range of attractions set to attract people to the town, including a grotto opening ohn Thursday, November 19, and an ice rink opening in Calverley Grounds the following day until Sunday, January 3.

Royal Victoria Place will be hosting a special Black Friday s0hopping event on Friday, November 27 between 8am and 8pm with free parking after 4pm.

Council cabinet member for economic development, tourism and leisure, Jane March, said: “The Christmas period is vital to all the town centre businesses.

“The council is delighted to support this initiative by offering free parking and adding to the town’s attractions with the ice rink.”