Mole Valley is waiving charges at all district council owned car parks on three dates in December to attract Christmas shoppers.

Free Christmas parking has been extended to three Saturdays in all car parks owned by Mole Valley District Council, including in Leatherhead, on December 1, 8 and 15.

Councillor David Hawksworth CBE, cabinet member for wellbeing, said: “We are very aware of the challenges faced by our high street businesses at this time, and are anxious to do what we can to support them.

“Retailers have to confront a rapidly changing environment, with the rise of online shopping, high rents and business rates.

“These dates have been selected in consultation with local business groups, and we trust residents will make the most of these days and come in to shop and support our local traders.

Councillor David Hawksworth added: “We are also waiving charges for special weekday evenings for seasonal events in Ashtead, Bookham and Leatherhead.”

Parking machines will stay switched on due to costs, but they will be marked with posters advertising the free parking days.

Any money is inserted on the free days will be given to the The Motor Neurone Disease Association and the Rainbow Trust.