OTLEY is serving up an early Christmas gift for shoppers - by providing a series of free parking days.

The scheme, now in its third year, will see the town's three Leeds City Council-operated car parks - Beech Hill, Courthouse Street and North Parade - operating for free on each December weekend before Christmas.

Free parking will also be available at the sites from 3pm on Monday, November 26: the day of the town's Christmas lights switching-on ceremony.

Councillor Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon), who was instrumental in making the arrangements, said: "I’m pleased to announce the return of free parking in Otley on select dates in the run up to Christmas.

"The town’s independent shops and buzzing cafés, pubs and restaurants make for a fabulous place for people to visit and do their Christmas shopping.

"The approval of the free parking scheme encourages people to visit Otley and enjoy our unique festive atmosphere, while delivering a boost to our valued businesses. "Leeds City Council’s continued commitment to the scheme for a third year is much appreciated."

Chairman of Otley Town Council's Trade and Tourism Committee, Councillor Paul Carter (Lib Deb, West Chevin), added: "There’s so much going on in Otley over the festive season, from traditional Otley events such as the Victorian Fayre and Christmas Tree Festival to newer offerings such as our Snowman Trail.

"The offer of free parking makes visiting Otley over the Christmas period hassle-free for residents, shoppers and visitors alike, as well as providing valuable support for local businesses."