Stay local this Christmas is the message from Farnham Town Council and the Farnham BID team

Farnham Town Council and Farnham Business Improvement District (BID) have joined forces to deliver a package of festive initiatives designed to boost footfall and celebrate the town’s vibrant retail and business community.

After a challenging year caused by extensive roadworks in Farnham town centre, the BID and Farnham Town Council have partnered with Surrey County Council and Waverley Borough Council to offer shoppers discounted parking between 9 December and 1 January. From Monday to Thursday between the hours of 1pm and 8am visitors will be able to park for £1 in any of Farnham’s Waverley-managed pay and display car parks.

Gemma McBride, Chair of Farnham BID and Partner at Baker Law says: “We have listened and acted on the feedback we have received from local businesses and, along with Farnham Town Council, we are pleased to be jointly contributing to discounted parking in Farnham.

“Once parked, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere that is uniquely Farnham. By backing this initiative, we aim to see businesses benefiting from us making it easier and more attractive for people to choose Farnham as their destination for Christmas shopping and festive outings.”

Adding some extra sparkle to the season are Farnham Town Council’s brand-new Christmas lights. Support from the BID has enabled the inclusion of some highly popular, social media friendly features such as illuminated selfie frames in the Lion and Lamb, Farnham Maltings and Gostrey Meadow.

To make the town look extra festive, businesses and Farnham’s rich mix of independent stores and High Street names have been competing for attention in the BID’s Christmas Window Scheme. The Mayor of Farnham will judge the competition to find the most creative and eye-catching display, and the winner will be revealed on the BID’s website.

As the former owner of a town centre coffee shop, the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor George Murray stresses the importance of championing the town’s business community. He says: “Farnham thrives when its businesses thrive. The partnership between the Town Council and the BID shows how much can be achieved when we work collaboratively for the good of our town. I encourage everyone to stay local this Christmas, enjoy our festive activities, and continue supporting our excellent shops and services now and in the new year.”

Other festive events that can only be experienced in Farnham include Farnham Town Council’s vibrant Christmas Market on 14 December. Over 100 stalls will line Castle Street and The Borough, and a free hoppa shuttle bus will ferry people to and from town.

In addition, between now and early January, families and visitors of all ages can take part in the BID’s Christmas Nutcracker Trail. There are nine festive clues hidden around town and prizes for three lucky winners.

Full details about Christmas in Farnham can be found on Farnham Town Council’s website at www.farnham.gov.uk and the BID’s new website at www.makeitfarnham.co.uk.