The Ashley Centre in Epsom is extending its opening hours and offering free parking and entertainment for shoppers over the Christmas period.

The shopping centre will be opened until 8pm on December 20, 21 and 22 to give local residents and visitors more opportunities to buy presents for their loved ones.

Cash-strapped shoppers will also be pleased to learn there will be free parking at The Ashley Centre car park on Sunday, December 9, 16 and 23.

A Father Christmas will be at the Ashley Centre on December 23 from 10.30am to 4.30pm, and entertainers will be performing at the shopping centre in the run up to Christmas.

Ashley Centre manager David Beddows said the shopping centre was pleased to support the local community with a range of festive events and charity fundraisers.

He said: “Once again The Sunnybank Trust will be offering a gift wrapping service from December 15 to 24. We are delighted to support this wonderful local charity who last year made £3,000 from their charity gift wrapping.

“We are also launching a toy appeal for Epsom Hospital Children’s Ward. Please drop a new toy or present in to the Sunnybank Trust gift wrapping stand before December 21 and we will take the donations to the Children’s Ward.

“There is also a food box by Waitrose if anyone would like to donate any food for the homeless. There is also a collection box for the Scouts Community Christmas Post delivering in Epsom, Ewell and Ashtead until December 18.”