TWO hours free parking in Bournemouth town centre should make shoppers and traders happy this autumn.

From Saturday, October 9, early risers can park from 8am until 10am at the Richmond Gardens multi-storey without digging into their pockets.

This brainwave of Bournemouth Borough Council and the town’s Chamber of Trade and Commerce means that as the usual charge is two hours for £1, they’ll be able to browse until noon for just £1.

Cllr Michael Filer hopes lots of people will take advantage of shops and cafes opening early and start their weekend in style.

Cllr Filer, the cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “This car park is right on top of the shops, in the heart of the town.

“Hopefully this deal will encourage as many out of town people as possible to come into Bournemouth.

“We think we’ve got far better shops than neighbouring towns, and in the run-up to Christmas it’s a prime time for shoppers to catch those sales and pick up presents.”

He added that he hoped this would “remove the myth” that it’s expensive to park in Bournemouth.

If you need caffeine before hitting the rails Coffee L’Amour, in Old Christchurch Road, is offering 20 per cent off on Saturday mornings until the free parking ends on January 1, 2011.

Chamber President Nigel Hedges said: “We want to make everyone’s shopping experience more pleasant.

“So if you don’t like paying to park, this free two hours comes with our compliments and we hope you enjoy yourselves.

“Why not have a relaxed coffee or breakfast to start the day?”

The council is using part of its recession fund to pay for the offer, and also consulted the Town Management and Bournemouth Tourism boards.