Free parking will be available in the run up to Christmas to encourage residents to shop locally.

The initiative will begin in late November and continue through to the first Saturday in December at selected car parks in the Dorset area.

Dorset Council is offering free parking in Beaminster, Bridport, Dorchester, Lyme Regis and Weymouth.

Details of the car parks and dates can be seen on the council’s Christmas parking web page (dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/christmas-information/free-parking-in-council-car-parks-this-christmas).

The free parking incentive aims to encourage residents to support local businesses by shopping locally and attending events.

Councillor Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment said: “Shopping locally is a great way to 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.”

Free parking will also be available on Saturday, December 3 during the “Small Business Saturday” event.

Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign which highlights successful small businesses and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support communities.

More free parking days in car parks managed by Dorset Council are set to be announced on various other dates in the run-up to Christmas.

However, drivers should know that on-street parking charges and private car park charges will still apply.

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.

If drivers normally use an online service to pay for their parking, they should check the car park’s charges boards/ticket machines for details of free parking. If free parking is advertised on that day, they do not need to buy an online ticket.

Car parks in Weymouth offering free parking on Saturday, November 26, and Small Business Saturday, December 3 will be: Cosens Quay (from 9am), Council Offices, Governors Lane, Harbourside, Melcombe Regis, North Quay, Park Street, Pavilion, Pavilion Forecourt, Royal Yard and Swannery.

In Dorchester the following car parks will be made free on Saturday, November 26, Small Business Saturday December 3 and Thursday, December 15: Acland Road, Durngate Street, Fairfield, Old Market, Top O' Town, Trinity Street (south) and Wollaston Field.