London's Mayor has announced all Tramlink services will be free next weekend to encourage residents to shop locally after the service was restored yesterday.

The tram's track and 60 metres of overhead wiring were severely damaged by fires lit during Monday's riots in Croydon on Monday.

The iconic Reeves furniture building, which was completely destroyed by fire, was adjacent to the tram network.

After the service was restored at 11am yesterday, Boris Johnson used his visit to Croydon to announce Transport for London would offer a free service across the Tramlink network next weekend (August 20 and 21).

Mr Johnson said: “London Tramlink is the life force which keeps Croydon’s economy healthy and as such it is a symbol of this town’s refusal to be cowed by the actions of mindless thugs.

"To help residents and business people get their town up and running again our engineers have pulled out all the stops to get the full tram service running reliably and safely.

“The appalling recent events have left many small London firms bruised so I urge Londoners to show solidarity with our fantastic small businesses and help get them back on to their feet.

"Today, this weekend and beyond please get out spending on your high street and do your bit to help your local shops and businesses recover.”

Deputy Chief Executive of South London Business, Simon Turnage said: “We congratulate The Tramlink team on the Tramlink’s swift return to service after the appalling riots, vandalism and looting earlier this week.

"The Tram is a vital part of south London’s transport infrastructure and the disruption to its service has been considerable.

"Commuters and shoppers alike have been affected by the disruption, and we are very pleased that TfL and their contractors have worked, in difficult conditions, to repair the damage and get tram services back on track”.