Stay local this Christmas is the message from Farnham Town Council and the Farnham Business Improvement District (BID) as they team up to support shoppers and boost the town centre.

The council and BID have joined forces to deliver a package of festive initiatives designed to boost footfall and celebrate the town’s vibrant retail and business community.

After a challenging year caused by extensive roadworks in Farnham town centre, the organisations have partnered with Surrey County Council and Waverley Borough Council to offer shoppers discounted parking between December 9 and January 1.

From Monday to Thursday between 1pm and 8am, visitors will be able to park for £1 in any of Farnham’s Waverley-managed pay-and-display car parks.

Gemma McBride, chair of Farnham BID and partner at Baker Law, said: “We have listened and acted on the feedback we have received from local businesses and, along with Farnham Town Council, we are pleased to be jointly contributing to discounted parking in Farnham.

“Once parked, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere that is uniquely Farnham. By backing this initiative, we aim to see businesses benefiting from us making it easier and more attractive for people to choose Farnham as their destination for Christmas shopping and festive outings.”

Adding extra sparkle to the season are Farnham Town Council’s brand-new Christmas lights. Support from the BID has enabled the inclusion of popular, social media-friendly features such as illuminated selfie frames in the Lion and Lamb, Farnham Maltings and Gostrey Meadow.

Businesses, independent stores and High Street names have also been competing for attention in the BID’s Christmas Window Scheme. The Mayor of Farnham will judge the competition to find the most creative and eye-catching display, with the winner to be revealed on the BID’s website.

As the former owner of a town centre coffee shop, the Mayor of Farnham, Cllr George Murray, stressed the importance of championing the town’s business community. He said: “Farnham thrives when its businesses thrive. The partnership between the town council and the BID shows how much can be achieved when we work collaboratively for the good of our town.

“I encourage everyone to stay local this Christmas, enjoy our festive activities, and continue supporting our excellent shops and services now and in the new year.”

Other festive events include Farnham Town Council’s Christmas Market on December 14, with more than 100 stalls lining Castle Street and The Borough, and a free Hoppa shuttle bus running to and from town.

Between now and early January, families and visitors of all ages can also take part in the BID’s Christmas Nutcracker Trail. There are nine festive clues hidden around town, with prizes for three winners.

Details about Christmas in Farnham can be found at www.farnham.gov.uk and the BID’s new website at www.makeitfarnham.co.uk.