There’s been a different sort of parking fine dropping onto windscreens in Preston this Christmas.

Shoppers have been returning to their vehicles in the St George’s Shopping Centre to find a parking ticket on their windscreen.

Stating ‘Your Parking is Fine’ it leads to the shopper receiving a bunch of flowers, chocolates or luxury hampers.

Now bosses at the shopping centre have also employed Santa’s elf to appear at the till in random shops and pay for people’s shopping.

Preston late night Christmas shopping 2016 and free parking

One lucky shopper Rachel Ploom had her shopping paid for in Marks and Spencer. She said: “I can’t believe you’re doing this, I’ve had some really bad news this week and this has just made my day, thank you, it’s so kind.”

The Christmas elf pops up in The Perfume Shop

Andrew Stringer, general manager of St George’s Shopping Centre, added: “Everybody loves a surprise and that’s what this is all about. It’s a way to say thank you to our loyal customers. The response so far has been wonderful and we’ve enjoyed being able to put a smile of people’s faces.

“We know on these dark winter days there’s not always much to be cheery about but we’re doing our best to show our shoppers they’re important to us.

“Our Random Acts will be continuing throughout December and we’ve even got elves with us every Saturday to make a note of people’s Christmas wishes, who knows what that might lead to!”