Visitors to Christmas events in Oban, Helensburgh and Dunoon will be able to park free of charge in the towns’ pay-and-display car parks.

Argyll and Bute Council is waiving charges as part of its commitment to supporting the local economy.

Policy Lead for Roads and Amenity Services, Councillor Roddy McCuish, said: “This is a great festive boost for the towns.

“By allowing people to use our off-street car parks free of charge again this year we showing our support for local communities and the local economy.

“Winter festivals in our main towns are big draws and we’re committed to doing what we can to support them.  Obviously to keep our roads and car parks in good condition we have to charge for parking but we are happy to waive charges to support local events.

“It’s a tough financial time for many, especially in the run-up to Christmas, so we’re happy to make it as easy as possible for people to take advantage of everything that’s on offer in our towns. Please come and enjoy our towns’ festive delights.”

Charges will be waived in Oban from 17 to 26 November and Helensburgh on 2 and 3 December for their winter festivals, and in Dunoon on 25 November for its day of festive events.

Meters will be bagged up and signs put up to let people know parking is free.