IN a move that will bring Christmas cheer to Haslemere retailers, Waverley Borough Council has agreed to allow free parking in its car parks on the first Saturday in December.

The concession follows protracted talks between Haslemere and District Chamber of Trade, other local groups and the council over the cost and provision of parking, and the possibility of lower tariffs to encourage shoppers into the town.

The council's decision also reflects a recent central government request for local authorities to support retailers in the run-up to Christmas.

For full story, see this week's Haslemere Herald.