Picking up Christmas gifts will be at the top of many of 'to do' lists as shops and businesses across the Moorlands re-open - and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is offering free parking on Saturdays this month with the aim of making that easier.

The district council offers five days of free parking a year in its off-street car parks, and the town councils in Biddulph, Cheadle and Leek decide when they want to use them to support events and key activities in the towns.

Cheadle and Leek Town Councils have decided to use some of these days in the build-up to Christmas and parking will be free on Saturdays 5th, 12th and 19th December this year. Drivers won't need to display a ticket on these dates.

However, the district council says that Biddulph Town Council hasn't yet confirmed when it plans to use its free days.

Councillor Sybil Ralphs, Leader of the District Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: "December Saturdays are always key calendar dates for local shops and business but this year they have taken on an extra significance as we come out of the second national Covid lockdown.

"It's a welcome boost to our town centres that non-essential shops and services can now re-open so people can shop locally for their seasonal gifts and treats and we're encouraging everyone to take advantage of that.

"It will really make a difference to our local economy and show our hard-working, resilient businesses how much we appreciate the efforts they've made to re-open safely.

"We're delighted to be able to support shoppers and traders by offering free parking and we're looking forward to welcoming people back to our high streets in the busy build-up to the big day.

"But Covid has not gone away and we all need to remain vigilant so please remember to wear a face covering and stay apart from others when shopping - let's look after each other this Christmas."