Festive spending spree under way

Shops reported brisk sales across the country

Shoppers have hit the high streets across Scotland to trigger this year's festive spending spree.

Most stores said staff had struggled to cope with shoppers' demands as sales shot up.

At Aberdeen's Bon Accord Centre more than 315,000 people a week expected to pass through the doors this weekend.

Duty centre manager Frank Sutherland said: "It has been comparable with last year. At the moment trade is very brisk indeed."

Retail outlets were being kept busy

He was unsure whether it would be a record-breaking festive season for stores in the north east of Scotland.

But Mr Sutherland added: "The past week has seen a take-off or marked increase in the number of shoppers."

At the John Lewis store in Glasgow's Buchanan Galleries staff were working flat-out to keep up with the festive rush.

Lesley Ballantyne, the store's merchandise manager, said: "It's looking good. Our staff have been rushed off their feet getting the stock out on the shelves for customers and getting the customers through the tills as fast as they can."

Sales in Edinburgh have increased on last year though there appeared to be fewer shoppers.

Deborah Robertson, marketing manager at The Gyle Shopping Centre, said: "People are definitely putting their shopping off until later, with many starting their present buying today.

"There are fewer people than last year but they are spending more.

"Business is great today and there seems to be a much better atmosphere this festive season, where as last year September 11 loomed in people's minds."