FREE coach parking has been introduced at a tourist town on the edge of the North York Moors.

The year-long pilot scheme in Helmsley is the result of collaboration between the town council and Ryedale District Council.

Coaches are now able to park free of charge in the long stay Cleveland Way car park, with the aim of encouraging visitors to stay for longer in the town - which was recently crowned Best Market Town in the Great British High Street Awards.

The scheme is a result of continuing discussions around innovative parking strategies for the town, instigated by the Helmsley in Business group and the Federation of Small Businesses.

Ideas are also being considered to help provide flexible parking solutions for residents and local shoppers.

Ryedale’s chief executive, Janet Waggott, said: “We are very pleased to create the opportunity to work differently in Helmsley.

“We look forward to piloting different ways of delivering services to make sure that we do what really matters for our residents, businesses and visitors to Ryedale.

“I hope that this pilot scheme and other possible trials in Helmsley will be successful and encourage innovative ways of working and a much closer working relationship between the district council, town and parish councils, businesses, volunteers and the local residents throughout our market towns and villages.”