Free on-street parking, discounts in a series of leading retailers and free tram travel will all be on offer over the weekend as businesses and the council work to put the August riots behind them.

Put together by Croydon Council and the borough's Business Improvement District this weekend is the first in a series of offers expected in the next few weeks to encourage shoppers to support recovery following the riots.

Council Leader Mike Fisher said: "Croydon is back in business and while we know there is still work to do we wanted to immediately recognise the overwhelming community spirit that we've seen during the past week and offer support to businesses affected.

"I'd urge everybody to visit Croydon this weekend and take advantage of the cut price parking, free transport and the array of first-class shops and restaurants the borough has to offer."

Free parking in surface car parks and on street will be available both Saturday on Sunday, while discounted £2 parking will be on offer at Whitgift car park and the Mayor of London Boris Johnson, who earlier this week offered support to the borough sporting a I Love Croydon t-shirt, has announced free tram travel.

The Mayor said: "I was deeply moved by my visits to Croydon last week. And I was greatly heartened by the determination of local people not to let the mindless behaviour of a few members of our society leave a permanent mark on this community.

"I urge everyone to take advantage of the free travel on the trams this weekend and head into Croydon town centre.

"The message is clear. It's business as usual."

Retailers offering discounts include free use of the children's play area in Beanies Cafe on Saturday and free face painting in the Croydon Visitor Centre all weekend, discounts food Pizza Express, Bon Marche, Jury's Inn, Green Dragon Pub, discount at DIY Den and two for one entry to Jongleurs comedy at Tiger Tiger.

Full details at www.croydon.gov.uk