SHOPPERS were ‘out in force’ in town centres on Boxing Day to pick up bargains in the sales.

East Lancashire stores were packed as families continued their festive spending. The Mall Blackburn welcomed more shoppers as it built on a successful pre-Christmas period.

Stores such as Pandora, Footasylum, Primark and Game were just some which saw large queues. Others including JD Sports, Next and River Island also had sales on to attract the crowds.

Loraine Jones, general manager at The Mall Blackburn, said: “We have enjoyed a fantastic festive season here at The Mall and, after seeing shoppers out in force on Boxing Day, it looks set to continue. 

“Footfall is up 5 per cent for the year to date with people travelling from across the county and even further afield to visit The Mall. 

“There are still some fantastic deals to be had by bargain hunters with lots of massive discounts available in many stores. We look forward to seeing shoppers this week.”

Shopper Daniel McDonald, 21, from Blackburn, said: “It’s nice to come out and see what is on offer. Some of the shops have just been rammed.”

Catherine Mason, 42, from Barrowford, said: “It’s been packed, we’ve seen people of all ages out and about struggling with bags. It’s good for the area to see the shops so busy though.”

Charter Walk in Burnley also attracted the crowds to end a ‘brilliant year’.

Debbie Hernon, centre manager, said: “It’s been a fantastic build up to Christmas 2017 and the centre has had an electric atmosphere as shoppers have bustled about their business. The stores have had some amazing offers. 2017 has been a brilliant year and we are now all really excited for 2018 with the long anticipated arrival of Primark.”

Holmes Mill in Clitheroe was also busy as shoppers stocked up on New Year food and drink from the foodhall.