PARKING across Hambleton District Council car parks will be free every Thursday in the run up to Christmas.

The council say there will be no charge to shoppers in their council operated car parks on Thursday's up to December 25 and each day from then until January 1.

"We hope ‘Free Thursdays’ 2018 will once again bring more shoppers into our market towns in the run up to the festive season," said Councillor Isobel Sanderson, Portfolio Holder for Governance.

"It worked exceptionally well last year, we had positive feedback from traders and shoppers alike. It is a huge boost to the towns at their busiest time of the year.

"But we do ask shoppers to remember that parking time limits still apply in our dedicated short stay only car parks in Thirsk Market Place and in Northallerton, the Applegarth short stay and Forum short stay."