The Royal Tunbridge Wells Retail Group (RTWRG) has produced a countdown of festive events in the town.

The list includes the arrival of Santa on his sleigh, the Christmas lights switch on, a Christmas High Street shopping event, Christmas markets in The Pantiles, Skating in the Park and a star-studded Peter Pan Pantomime at The Assembly Hall Theatre.

An early Christmas gift has been announced by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in the form of free parking in all car parks on 19 busy late night shopping dates

A calendar of events map is being produced to signpost shoppers.

There will be special offers and rewards available on the recently launched STAMP IT loyalty app - the free to download mobile programme unique to the town.

Richard Simm, chair of the Sssociation of Pantiles Traders, said: “It's great to be able to collaborate with people from the other shopping areas of the town.

"Tunbridge Wells is unusual in that we have several different shopping quarters each with its’ own identity. But this is its strength and one we aim to promote together.”

Nicky Blanchard, centre manager at RVP is delighted that TWBC have responded to the request and agreed free parking from 4pm to 8.30pm. She said: “Parking is something that always gets lots of negative coverage, but this is a great initiative demonstrating partnership between retail businesses and TWBC and we should shout about it!”

The Royal Tunbridge Wells Retail Group* (RTWRG) was set up in January 2013 to promote Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre as a premier shopping destination and regional attraction for West Kent.

Jeremy Mather, assistant general manager, HoopersDepartment Store said: “Hoopers are very excited about the plans for Christmas this year. It’s great to be part of the Tunbridge Wells business community that is working together to bring a great shopping experience for everyone over the Festive Period.”

Some key dates on the Christmas diary:

• Thursday, November 13 - Santa will arrive to switch on Christmas lights at Royal Victoria Place
• Sunday, November 16 - Sunday, December 21 - Live music sessions as Britten's Music on Grove Hill Road
• Friday, November 21 - Sunday, January 4 - Ice Skating in the Park at The Pantiles and Calverley Grounds
• Thursday, December 11 - Christmas High Street shopping event until 9pm. Carol singers, festive drinks and nibbles will welcome shoppers.
• Friday, December 12 - Sunday, January 4 - Assembly Hall Theatre will welcome Peter Pan pantomime
• Monday, December 22 - Special Christmas Farmer’s Market outside the Town Hall

Ambassador of the High Street and STAMP IT subscriber, Jo Wicker at Payne & Son said: “Our Christmas High Street Shopping Event is very popular with families and one of the highlights of the season. This year our raffle has more generous prizes donated from High Street shops and businesses with all proceeds going to Hospice in The Weald.”

In The Pantiles there will be three weekends of Christmas markets in December featuring local farmers and artisans.

For more info and events visit: http://twellsretailgroup.nmgl.co.uk/