Weymouth Town Council has announced there will be free parking in the town on selected days to encourage more people to shop in local businesses.

After a successful application to Dorset Council, free parking will be available on Saturday, November 26, Saturday, December 3 and Wednesday, December 28.

Participating car parks include Pavilion, Pavilion Forecourt, Old Council Offices on North Quay, Governors Lane, Cosens Quay, Harbourside, Melcombe Regis, Park Street and Swannery.

Saturday November 26 coincides with Weymouth's Christmas lights switch on at 5.00pm on New Bond Street.

There will also be entertainment provided throughout the day thanks to We Are Weymouth, which is staging an elf world record attempt.

There will also be late night shopping in the town centre.

Saturday December 3 is Small Business Saturday, a national event organised to support small businesses.

And Wednesday, December 28 provides a chance to enjoy a day out in the town after the substitute bank holidays for Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Cllr Tony Ferrari, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Assets and Property, said: "Weymouth is home to a fabulous range of shops and businesses so we hope this free parking offer will urge people to support their local high streets and venues, giving traders a much-needed boost."

Cllr Ryan Hope, Chair of Services Committee, added: "Our thanks go to Dorset Council for supporting this initiative again this year.

"From the Christmas lights switch-on to supporting independent traders on Small Business Saturday, having free parking available will certainly help draw people into the town and boost the local economy."