Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has announced it will be suspending car park charges on specific dates during Christmas events.

The council hopes that the offer will encourage visitors to the town over the Christmas period.

The decision was taken by portfolio holder Councillor Alan McDermott after consulting local retailers.

Charges will be suspended between 4pm and 8.30pm on the following dates:

• Thursday, November 13 – switching on the Christmas lights at Royal Victoria Place
• Thursday, December 11 – High Street Christmas event
• Monday, December 15- Tuesday, December 23 – late night Christmas shopping (excluding Sunday 21 December)

Cllr McDermott said: “The decision to suspend parking charges is good for both retailers and residents.

"I’m very aware that it seems far too early to talk about Christmas but I do hope that nearer the time people will plan to come into town and take advantage of this offer.”