Shrewsbury traders opening late for festive season

Many of the town centre shops will be staying open late every Wednesday from November 14, when the town's lights are switched on, up until Christmas.

On these days there will be a free park and ride service from midday at Harlescott, Meole Brace and Oxon, which will be extended to 9pm with buses running every 20 minutes.

Late night Wednesday shoppers will also be able to park free of charge from 3pm at the Abbey Foregate and Frankwell car parks.

The Raven Meadows multi-storey will also offer 50 per cent off parking from 3pm on these evenings.

Trish Donovan, owner of Vinterior and a board member of Shrewsbury Business Improvement District (BID), said: “We’re looking forward to a wonderful build-up to Christmas with lots of activities during late-night shopping.

"Many of the independents will be hosting festive evenings with prosecco and special offers. There’s always a special atmosphere.”

Win

A Christmas guide, The Wonderful World of Shrewsbury at Christmas has been designed to help people make the most of their visits, with free copies available from local shops from the Christmas lights switch on.

A new addition to late-night shopping this year will be a giant Christmas card popping up around town on Wednesday nights. Photographs taken ‘inside’ the card and tagged on social media with #ShrewChristmas will be in with a chance to win £250 to spend in Shrewsbury.

Seb Slater, Executive Director of Shrewsbury BID, said: “Shrewsbury’s appeal comes to the fore at Christmas with so much going on.

"Our local businesses really help people get into the Christmas spirit and provide a warm welcome. People looking for great gift ideas, seasonal food and drink and some on-street fun will find it all here with late-night Wednesday evenings an ideal time to visit.”

Steve Davenport, Shropshire Council Cabinet member for highways and transport said: “We’re pleased to be delivering great value parking offers to assist late-night shopping and we hope it will encourage people to spend more time here, enjoy the festivities and support local businesses.”