Free parking available in Market Drayton for Christmas lights switch-on

It follows a last minute bid from the town council to Shropshire Council to offer the free parking.

Free parking will be available from 2pm in the Queen Street, Towers Lawn 1 and Towers Lawn 2 car parks.

The town's Christmas festival will start at 10am, with the Christmas lights being turned on at about 5pm.

The event will also feature live music, fire eaters, magic acts and Santa's grotto.

Santa is due to arrive in Cheshire Street at 10.45am before travelling through the street at 1.30pm

Kate Harvey, assistant town clerk, said: "I asked the question of Shropshire Council and they granted it, so obviously I am delighted.

"I told them there has been a lot of community spirit in the town and I have had a lot of support, including from businesses, to be able to put on the event, which is running all afternoon.

"By offering free parking, I wanted to give something back.

"Free parking won't be available on the Frogmore Road car park as they wanted to leave it for other people to be able to do their shopping.

"I hadn't realised free parking was something we could request, otherwise I would have done it earlier."