Round- the- clock opening

SOME shops today won’t bring down the shutters as they seek to claw back the £ 900million lost everyday in retail due to Covid.

At 11 Primark stores doors will open at 7am and will remain so until regular closing times tomorrow.

The fashion retailer’s outlets in Trafford, York Monks Cross, Leeds White Rose and Birmingham Fort are among those involved.

Security

Some stores have extra security for queues, with chains such as Primark and Ikea expecting crowds.

The British Independent Retailers Association

( Bira) urged shoppers to visit their high street today, adding: “There has never been a more important time for shoppers to get out and support their local independent retailers”.

Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s boss, called it “the most important December ever” for many independents.

He added: “We hope shoppers will come flocking back to the high streets and take advantage of all the shops being open in a safe environment.”

Helen Dickinson, of the British Retail Consortium, said: “Thousands of retailers are looking forward to welcoming back customers.

“Every purchase we make is a retailer helped, a job protected and a local community supported.

“With Christmas around the corner, there is a reason for everyone to be visiting their local shopping district.”

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