A FEW months ago things looked decidedly gloomy for retailers across the country as it seemed like 2005 would be a year to forget.

Well-known high street chains were reporting the worst figures for some time and it seemed people were holding on to their cash, apparently because they were apprehensive about what the future might bring.

In an area like East Lancashire, with its many town centres packed with shops of all sizes, a real slow-down in retail sales would have far- reaching effects on many families whose livelihoods depend on making and selling consumer goods.

Now it looks like Christmas has finally tempted people to dig deep and spend.

Shopping centre spokespersons from Blackburn to Pendle are reporting a late rush to buy presents and the British Retail Consortium forecasts that each household will spend £160 on food and drink, £660 on gifts and £20 on cards.

And that's good news for us all. It shows families have enough confidence about the future to put their hands into their pockets and circulate cash which is the economic lifeblood of our community.

And hopefully that will enable us all to look forward to a financially healthy and prosperous New Year.