DRIVERS in Liverpool are being given free parking on weekdays after 3pm, in the run- up to Christmas.

From Monday, December 14, until Christmas, there will be free parking on city centre streets and in council car parks.

The council is also offering three hours of parking for £1 at weekends from Saturday.

It applies to on-street parking and also council-owned car parks.

Liverpool Council leader Warren Bradley said: “While Liverpool has been bucking the trend in recent months with our retail sector success, there is no escaping the fact that local businesses and residents have had a tough time economically.

“We want to do all we can to encourage people to come to the city centre in the festive period.

“What we are introducing will help both shoppers and businesses, and I am sure will be appreciated.

“We now have an unrivalled retail offer, the Big Wheel, an ice skating rink, a superb Christmas market – not to mention 200 highly colourful penguins. Liverpool is the best place to be this Christmas – and these parking offers make it an even more attractive place to visit.”