There will be free parking in all public Maldon town centre car parks throughout November and December, the district council has announced.

Parking will be free every Thursday from 2pm during both months, and all day on Christmas Eve.

The council hopes that the free parking afternoons and evenings in the run up to Christmas will encourage residents to shop local and support the town's High Street businesses.

Councillor Wendy Stamp, leader of the district council, said: "It's great to be able to support Maldon High Street following last year's restrictions.

"We recognise that Coronavirus has been very challenging for all businesses in the district, and particularly our High Street retail and hospitality services.

"We have chosen to reallocate the 'free parking' days last year along with this year's allocation, to ensure local businesses can truly benefit from them and the removal of restrictions.

"I would remind residents and visitors to continue to respect people's choice to continue to wear face coverings, to test regularly and to keep washing and sanitising their hands to keep life moving.

"It will enable residents and visitors to the town to shop local and shop safely in a more relaxed atmosphere with some shops remaining open later in the evening on a Thursday.

"I encourage everyone to keep it local this year."

Allison Gray, chairman of Maldon Business Board and owner of Willow and Fox, said: "The Maldon Business Board wholeheartedly supports the free half days of parking which the council has offered.

"This provides a good balance, supporting local businesses while spreading out demand for parking over the Christmas period.

"Local businesses have worked hard to provide safe shopping experiences and we would like to thank the council for working with us during this year.

"We look forward to wishing all our returning customers a Merry Christmas and safe New Year."