Shoppers in Walsall will get 14 days of free parking over the Christmas period, it can be revealed today.

Parking fees will be suspended on council-run car parks in the town centre from December 20 and will return on January 3.

The announcement comes just days after the Express & Star revealed 19 streets in Walsall where pay and display machines will be introduced- virtually eliminating free parking in the centre.

Council chiefs said the move was an “early Christmas present” for the town.

Councillor Tom Ansell, cabinet member for transport, said: “I’m very pleased to say we are suspending charges over the festive period.

“This is good news for everyone and makes Walsall town centre even more attractive as a place to shop.

“I’m sure businesses will welcome this but most of all, this is good news for shoppers.”

Traders in the town, which has already lost its celebrity Christmas lights switch on, today welcomed the move.

Tony Larner, chairman of Walsall Market Traders Association, said: “Traders and businesses will always appreciate anything like this.

“It’s got to be useful for encouraging more people to come into the town over the Christmas period.

“I’m a bit surprised they’re doing it because of all the cuts at the moment but gestures like these really do make a difference.”

It will mean 6,000 free parking spaces being made available.

Council-run car parks in the town centre include Day Street, Intown Row and Hatherton Road.