Frome woke up to an early Christmas present this morning. As part of a Mendip-wide initiative, all parking charges at the council car parks have been suspended.

The council has suspended all parking charges from Wednesday 18 December until Tuesday 24 December - a goodwill gesture that's guaranteed to bring glad tidings to traders and shoppers alike.

New Year revelers can also raise a glass in celebration as the council is providing free parking on Wednesday 1 January. This is to support drivers who park vehicles in car parks on New Year's Eve, to use alternative and safe methods of transport to get home.

Haylee Wilkins, Group Manager of Neighbourhood Services, said: "We're pleased to be offering free parking in all our car parks during Christmas and New Year. It's a chance for people to make the most of the offer and visit our lovely towns and city, for a fuss free festive time with friends and family.

"It is hoped that the free parking will encourage shoppers to the high street which will deliver prosperity to our hard working Mendip businesses."