First Bridge late night shopping lacks festive spirit
SHOPPERS and shopkeepers reminisced about the old days of chestnuts and mince pies, as they said the first late-night shopping event of the year on the Bridge was the worst ever.
Tuesday’s late night shopping on the Bridge saw many shops closed, including Costa Coffee, the Motor Shop and Creasey’s, and many of those visiting the area were disappointed with the lack of festive spirit in the area.
Husband and wife Douglas and Kerry Howson said they had expected something different on their venture out.
‘It’s the first late opening and there’s nothing here,’ said Mrs Howson.
‘There’s shops closed, no atmosphere and few people wandering around shopping, it’s really disappointing.
‘We used to live here and there used to be carols and music and stalls outside selling mince pies and chestnuts – there’s nothing like that any more.’
Mr Howson was also aggrieved by how quiet it was.
‘I used to own the Mariners’ pub and there used to be carol singers outside,’ he said. ‘We used to get the punters to go outside and donate – it’s changed a lot since then.’
Those working in clothes shop Shoestring were also unhappy with how few people had turned out.
‘We thought there would be more open,’ said manageress Mandy Worthington.
‘But it’s completely dark down the sides, it’s really disappointing.
‘If people see how quiet it is, they’ll just think it’s not worth coming here – I think it’s the worst it’s ever been.’
Shoestring employee Ally Guilmoto also thought it had been an underwhelming first late opening night, though remained hopeful.
‘It is really quiet,’ she said. ‘It’s early though, so maybe people will come out later on, they might have just got home from work and be having tea, then come out after.’
However, as few shoppers as there were, some were still keen to return.
‘I’ve come to get some bits for my secret Santa for college,’ said College of Further Education student Jessica Bowring.
‘I’ll probably come again next week too.’
Diane Oke, laden with wrapping paper and gifts, also said it was still early days for shoppers.
‘It’s quiet at the moment, but it’s only the first night,’ she said.
‘I only live round the corner, so I’ll definitely come back. We’ll see how it goes.’
n The next late shopping on the Bridge is on Tuesday 17 December.