Christmas shoppers visiting Blaby and Narborough will be able to park for free on Saturday 6 December as part of a campaign to boost business for local shops in the run up to the festive season.

Blaby District Council is supporting the Small Business Saturday campaign and offering free parking in council run car parks in Blaby Town Centre and Narborough village to encourage people to shop local and stay longer.

Cllr Tony Greenwood, portfolio holder for Planning, Economic Development and Housing Strategy, said:

“The first Saturday in December is always known to be one of the busiest days for Christmas shopping. I want to encourage people to visit their local shops and support local business.

“This year we are encouraging people to swap the busy queues and traffic for some more relaxed retail therapy in our local centres. There are lots of gifts in store from local independent shops and free parking means you can stay longer at no expense.”

The national campaign is organised by the Forum of Private Business and is supported by Blaby District Council as one of a range of initiatives used to boost and regenerate local centres.

For more information contact Carole Troake, principal economic development officer at Blaby District Council at cat@blaby.gov.uk or call 0116 272 7735.