Festive shoppers are out in force in Trowbridge looking for a bargain as HJ Knee’s relocation sale started today.

Knees, who are moving from their home of 130 years to the Spitfire Retail Park in March, slashed prices by 30 per cent in many of their departments to sell stock they will not have space for in their new premises.

Ian Vidler, store manager, said that their Fore Street department store and nearby electricals shop, have seen a rise in footfall.

“The relocation sale has really brought out the crowds and it really reminds me of how Christmas shopping used to be in Trowbridge town centre,” he said.

“We thought the sale would coincide with the press coverage about the move. Everybody loves a bargain and we thought doing the sale now, before Christmas, would be a good way to thank our loyal customers.”

James Redfern, of Trowbridge, said: “I’ve come in to have a look what is on offer and see if I can get a couple of extra Christmas gifts.

 

"I thought I’d finished my Christmas shopping and I probably wouldn’t have come in if the sale hadn’t been on.

"I’d have thought all the coverage about Knees moving and this sale will bring out the shoppers tomorrow given that it is the last Saturday before Christmas.”

Another, customer, Amanda Pawlak from Bromham, bought a spirit level, radiator airer, lamp trays and cookery equipment in the sale. All her purchases were marked down by 30 per cent.

Miss Pawlak said: “I went in to seek a bargain and there are definitely some there to be found. I’ve shopped at Knees for many years and I am sad to see it leave the town centre.”