SHOPPERS in Lancashire are to get a Christmas present from a very unlikely source - traffic wardens.

Goody bags are to be handed out by parking attendants to the public at car parks and shopping centres after three transport-related teams, the Road Safety Group, TravelWise, and ParkWise joined forces to launch the novel idea.

The 'Winter Road Remedy' prescription-like bags include leaflets about winter driving, a parents' guide to sustainable travel, information on parking, and how to avoid getting a Penalty Charge Notice.

A few stocking fillers are thrown in, including an ice scraper, post-it notes, and samples donated by Fisherman's Friend and Lancashire Tea.

County Coun Tony Martin, cabinet member for sustainable development, said: "This is a fantastic campaign with all three teams combining their resources into one handy and useful pack.

"Winter can be a very busy and hazardous time on the roads and we hope the free information will help the people of Lancashire to travel safely over the winter period."

The leaflets have tips on judging the importance of your journey, stopping distances in icy weather, and recommendations on using public transport if at all possible.