People planning on doing their Christmas shopping from today can take advantage of reduced car parking rates, as a council is offering five hours of parking for just £1.

From today up to an including Friday December 24, drivers who pay for parking in borough council car parks in Ormskirk town centre will receive an additional two hours free parking.

If you’re planning on a Christmas shopping spree or meeting with friends for a festive meal in Ormskirk in the run up to Christmas, you can now park for up to five hours for just £1.

This means shoppers can pay just £1 to park for up to five hours instead of three (does not include Derby Street car park adjacent to the council's offices).

West Lancashire Borough Councillor Gaynar Owen, whose cabinet responsibilities include parking, said: "With our great parking offer you can spend even more time in town for just £1, meaning more money in your pocket in what can be a very expensive time of year.

"You'll get a warm welcome from local businesses as they continue their recovery from the pandemic and we encourage you to support them by shopping locally where you can.

"With everything Ormskirk has to offer this Christmas, you'll be spoilt for choice."

Motorists should check car park signage to make sure it is council-controlled and display the valid ticket they have paid for.

Notices explaining the offer will be displayed on the tariff boards adjacent to the pay and display machines.

The two extra free hours will not be shown on the ticket.

Council civil parking enforcement officers are aware of the offer and will allow for the extra two hours.

Parking is free of charge on council-controlled car parks in Ormskirk town centre on Sundays and Bank Holidays throughout the year.