LATE night shopping will kick off in Colchester on Wednesday night.

Department stores and independent retailers alike will stay open as late as 9.30pm for the five Wednesdays before Christmas.

Shoppers can park at Britannia, Priory Street, Vineyard Street and Napier Road car parks for only 50p after 3pm.

Michelle Reynolds, chair of Colchester’s Christmas Group, said: “We want local people to embrace the town this year, support the festive activities, and more importantly shop locally this Christmas.”

Visit www.visitcolchester.gov.uk/christmas2012 for more information.