A man has purchased a car park in the Devon coastal resort of Westward Ho! and has made it free to use for tourists and the public.

The car park has enough space for 20 vehicles, which were previously charged £3 per day by Torridge District Council.

The buyer, Mr Rob Braddick, bought a long lease on the car park on Tuesday, before creating a Facebook post telling people that parking there would be free.

Braddick said the car park had previously been a field owned by his grandfather, but which was compulsorily purchased in 1965.

Braddick's family have run Braddicks Leisure Ltd for the last 70 years, in a group of businesses that includes bars, restaurants and holiday resorts.

"I am thrilled to complete the deal," said Braddick, "We have been in business here for around 70 years as a family and we just wanted to give a little something back.

"I live in Westward Ho! and my business is also very close to the car park. Parking is an issue here, as it is everywhere and there is no other free car parking close by.

"People can use it to visit the local businesses and go on the coastal walk.”

Mr Braddick had been in discussions with the council for several months, but only completed the deal on Tuesday.

The married father-of-two said: "I have to say the council were very good to deal with."

Mr Braddick's decision to give the community free parking facilities was praised on Facebook.

Sue Piercy commented: "Well done that man. Thank you and I hope it brings you much custom."