The Christmas period treat that all drivers have been waiting for has been announced by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils.

In the run up to the holidays motorists can benefit from free parking in district council car parks in an annual tradition organised by local authorities.

This is to encourage residents to shop locally for their Christmas presents and catch up with their friends and family in local pubs and cafes during the festive period.

ALSO READ: Black student says Oxford porter asked him if he robbed the place

Drivers can park without purchasing a ticket in South and Vale car parks on the following days next month:

South Oxfordshire

•Didcot – Mondays ( Dec 9, 16, 23)

•Goring – Saturdays (Dec 7, 14, 21)

•Henley – Tuesdays (Dec 3, 10, 17)

•Thame – Saturdays (Dec 7, 14, 21)

•Wallingford -Thursdays (Dec 5, 12,19)

Vale of White Horse

•Abingdon – Saturdays (Dec 7, 14, 21)

•Faringdon – Saturdays (Dec 7, 14, 21)

•Wantage – Saturdays (Dec 7, 14, 21)

ALSO READ: A34 partial closure at Oxford from 8pm today until 5.30am Monday

The free parking days are agreed with all town councils depending on which day suits local traders best.

Parking is also free on a Sunday in many town centre car parks, owned by the council, so South and Vale authorities advise that motorists check tariff boards for further details.

To find out more visit southoxon.gov.uk/parking and whitehorsedc.gov.uk/parking