Boxing Day sales rush and online stampede expected

But after the experience of Black Friday, there were theories that more and more people could go online rather than frantically jostle for bargains.

Bosses at Preston’s Fishergate Centre and St George’s shopping centre were expecting brisk trade.

But some major retailers have already started their sales early.

Hugh Evans, deputy chief executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It must be acknowledged that internet shopping has become increasingly popular for those seeking to avoid the hustle and bustle associated with the post-Christmas period.

“However, you would imagine that a large number of shoppers will still be out and about on Boxing Day, looking to pick up bargains wherever they can.

“Fishergate and St George’s continue to be popular destinations for customers in our area but, irrespective of the time of year, any retail boost is always good news.”

Clothing retailers have been impacted by what is shaping up to be the warmest December in 70 years.

Black Friday in November has led a number of high street chains to begin sales early, such as H&M, Gap and Jack Wills.

This has resulted in the number of UK retailers in “significant” financial distress rising by two per cent to 24,737 in the final quarter of the year compared with 12 months ago, according to a report from insolvency specialist Begbies Traynor.

Grocers have been hit hardest, with the number of retailers in significant financial distress up by 11 per cent to 4,226 in the quarter.