WRAPPING UP THE WINTER HOLIDAYS

Not everyone wants to spend January and February planning their summer holidays – for many it’s already holiday season. According to Anthony Reynolds, of Reynolds Outdoor Centre at Derwent Street, it’s a busy time of year kitting out those who are heading off on skiing holidays home and abroad. “January and February are among our busiest months of the year because we are right in the middle of winter sports season,” said Mr Reynolds, who sells a large range of winter sports wear and accessories. Mr Reynolds says many of his customers will opt for Scottish ski resorts as soon as there is a threat of snow, while others will choose more traditional spots. “For cheap and cheerful you have Bulgaria, whereas those who are looking for your classic chocolate box scenery go to Austria or Switzerland, or even the French Alps. “What is interesting is that our customers tend to be people who take regular winter sport holidays. We’re pleased to have a loyal customer base of skiers and snowboarders who come back each year.” Once the winter sport season is done, Anthony and the team will start selling summer products, with tents among the store’s biggest sellers. “From Easter it all changes,” he added. “People start looking at the summer holidays and ‘staycations. Tents are big sellers in the summer months, and we find a lot of our customers will head off camping to places like the Lakes, Northumberland or Yorkshire. “A lot of people are still holidaying in Britain. It’s a changing world, and it’ll be interesting to see what this year brings for holidays here and abroad.” Those who enjoy the great outdoors can also head to Sunderland’s Trespass store at High Street West, which stocks a huge range of clothes and equipment – in fact there’s even accessories for your pooch if dog walking is part of your holiday regime. The shop caters for those who want to cycle, swim, camp or go on walking holidays, with a whole host of options for those whose breaks include going to one of the UK’s amazing music festivals.