Shoppers offered parking refund

Shopkeepers in part of Derby are hoping to attract more custom by offering to pay for parking in their area.

About 50 stores in the Cathedral Quarter have signed up to the scheme where anyone spending at least £25 will have their parking ticket reimbursed.

But some of those taking part have said they would have preferred a simpler free parking system.

Many businesses in the area have complained of a slump in takings since the £340m Westfield centre opened.

Window posters

The scheme works by machines on Full Street, Queen Street, Cathedral Road, St Mary's Gate, The Strand, Gower Street or Babington Lane, giving out a special ticket.

Shoppers leave half the ticket on display in the car and take the other half with them.

If they then spend over £25 or £50 - depending on the shop - their parking charge is returned.

Participating businesses, who will pay for the offer themselves, will display posters in their windows.