BARROW town centre retailers and shoppers enjoyed ‘one of the best ever weekends’ thanks to free parking.

On Saturday all town centre car parks, including Whittaker Street, Portland Walk, Emlyn Street, Hall Street, Fell Street and Oldham Street, were all free thanks to Shop Barrow Day.

The offer had been organised thanks to a collaboration between Barrow’s Business Improvement District and Barrow Borough Council.

Live entertainment was put on throughout the high street and shop owners reported record footfall.

John Graham said: “It was an absolutely fantastic turnout and a real positive day.

“Certainly highlights how parking has a major impact on the town centre and businesses.”

Andrea Scraggs, who owns Discount Footwear and Fascinators, said: “We had one of our best Saturdays in a while.

“Would welcome one of the car parks near the market to be free next time, or reduced prices. The market was definitely busier though.”

Richard Wilson from Grilla Cheese added: “We benefitted from this nearly as much as our customers have benefitted from the magic we put in their mouths.”

Jemma Johnston said: “Definitely made the salon even more busy and gave a boost to the town centre; exactly what we need.”

Lynn Beach, who owns Rebel Interiors in Scott Street, said: “Excellent idea. Lots of people in town centre.

"Well done Barrow BID.”

BID manager Colin Garnett said he had received overwhelmingly positive feedback from shoppers and retailers alike.

“Everyone has been saying how busy the entire town centre was and how it made a real difference,” he said.

Shoppers also welcomed the free parking offer.

Charlotte Martin described it as a ‘great idea’.

“I was able to take my time and go to a lot more shops, grab lunch and not have to worry about the time limit or cost of parking,” she added.

Sharon Moore said: "It was nice to spend time and not worry about parking running out.”