This year Mid Suffolk District Council is enticing shoppers in Stowmarket with an offer of free parking this Saturday.

Stowmarket Town Council is putting on a free market on the day – including charity and community stalls.

There will be street entertainment in the form of a giant snow globe and live music.

A nativity play will be performed in the United Reformed Church as well as Christmas activities at the Museum of East Anglian Life.

Derrick Haley, leader of Mid Suffolk said: “Christmas is approaching very fast now and we wanted to do something to help our local traders in and around Stowmarket during their busiest time.

“The town has a lot to offer and we hope this will act as an incentive to visit Stowmarket and remind people of the fantastic range of shops and restaurants on offer for all visitors.”

All six of the council’s car parks will be offering free parking.

Lesley Mayes, portfolio holder for economy and Stowmarket regeneration said: “We are really pleased to be able to offer free parking on a Saturday in the run up to Christmas, as it is one way the council can really support our communities. We hope this will give traders some certainty in uncertain times and a very welcome boost during the festive season.”

Stowmarket Town Council has welcomed the initiative, clerk David Blackburn said: “We are very excited by this initiative from Mid Suffolk District Council”.