TOWN centre workers in Kidderminster are being encouraged to use a new park and ride scheme to free parking spaces for shoppers.

Wyre Forest District Council is in negotiation with major stores in the town to encourage staff to use the park and ride from Crossley Park.

It is estimated that this could free-up around 1,000 car parking spaces in town centre car parks.

Andrew Dickens, the council's commercial services chief, said the park-and-ride scheme will be for season holders only, not the general public.

"We hope the stores will take up the offer and make available up to 1,000 spaces," he said.

Mr Dickens added that the council had received a good response to its last plea for workers to use the current park-and-ride scheme at Stadium Close.

The figure has more than trebled in the last three months - prior to that, less than 20 people a day were using it.

The council has also created 120 spaces by removing double yellow lines on Bromsgrove Street, Blackhorse Lane and Crown Lane.

It is also offering free parking in pay-and-display car parks from now until Sunday, January 12.