FREE parking will make a return in Kilmarnock town centre this December.

After 2pm, free parking will be available in council car parks and on-street spots, helping shoppers during the busy festive period.

This, combined with existing arrangements in East Ayrshire, means all towns will have free parking in the run-up to Christmas.

The initiative was first introduced last December and proved successful in offering affordable parking while maintaining availability.

The parking offer will apply to on-street parking from Monday to Saturday from 2pm onwards.

Off-street parking in council car parks will be free from Monday to Friday from 2pm onwards, with free parking after 12pm on Saturdays.

Sundays will remain free all day.

Parking after 2pm will not require a ticket or a pay-by-phone session.

Normal charges will apply from 9am to 2pm to discourage all-day parking and ensure space turnover during peak hours.

Councillor Jim McMahon, cabinet spokesperson for housing, transport and communities, said: "To gauge the effectiveness of last year’s parking offer, we gathered evidence through manual vehicle counts and observations throughout December.

"We also surveyed town centre businesses and results showed that, in general, they were keen to see a similar offer this year.

"The offer makes it easier for people to park in the town centre by removing the need for tickets or paying by phone if you’re parking after 2pm.

"Visitors to Kilmarnock and the local community will be able to access the town centre easily in the afternoon and evening for free from any of our car parks to do some Christmas shopping or enjoy one of our town centre restaurants."