FREE parking is being offered five times a year in Carmarthenshire’s main towns to support organised events - with Newcastle Emlyn one of those towns to benefit.

Carmarthenshire County Council is offering Town Forums and Chambers of Trade the chance to apply for the free parking days, though the imposition of parking charges is an issue in itself with many businesses.

As part of a larger planned campaign or event, the local authority will waive fees in its car parks on five separate occasions throughout the year in Newcastle Emlyn, Ammanford, Carmarthen, Llandeilo, Llandovery, Llanelli and St Clears.

The council wants to receive proposals through Town Forums, Chambers of Commerce and/or Trade, or online.

The council’s executive board member for environment Cllr Hazel Evans, said: “This initiative is designed to encourage people to visit our towns for events and discover what they have to offer.

“I would urge Town Forums and Chambers of Trade to come forward with proposals to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Jill Sutton, chairman of Newcastle Emlyn Traders, said: “The idea of such events as Vintage Day and Food Festival is to attract people into the town and make use of the free parking days on offer.”