COUNCIL car parking statistics show that shoppers are heading to Abingdon, Wantage and Faringdon to take advantage of the two hours’ free parking on offer.

There are three times as many drivers stopping off in the market towns than there were in January last year, so the scheme, designed to boost trade, appears to be working.

Traders have welcomed the encouraging statistics but said they do not have corresponding figures to show an increase in footfall and takings.

Now that there are more shoppers visiting the towns, traders must ensure that the welcome they give new customers guarantees they return.

In times of recession that means offering plenty of discounts and special offers, as well as greeting customers with a smile.

While council leaders at the Vale have taken an important first step to bring in more shoppers, they need to make sure the retail offer remains attractive enough to compete with other centres.

A multi-million scheme to revamp Abingdon’s precinct is expected to get under way soon, but the council must ensure that empty units in Bury Street do not remain empty for too long.