EAST Hampshire District Council is "helping Christmas get off to the best possible start" by offering free parking this weekend, to coincide with festive events.

The council said this "early gift for visitors" comes at the "beginning of the crucial Christmas shopping period".

In Alton parking will be free on Saturday, November 30 for the Santa Run, and Sunday, December 1 for the Yuletide Festival.

Petersfield car parks will be free on Sunday, December 1, to coincide with the Hometown Christmas Festival. The Tesco Car Park in Petersfield is not included.

Council car parks outside Petersfield and Alton are always free.

Parking meters will be bagged and clearly signed on the dedicated days. Penalty charge notices will still be issued if cars are parked improperly or in disabled bays.