Chilly start to year-end sales

It wasn't exactly sales fever.

But shoppers brought a touch of warmth to the chilly high streetin Bath this week.

Bargain hunters appeared to be waiting for prices to be cut evenfurther before parting with their cash - or had made a killing inthe pre-Christmas sales.

Several large stores started their sales before Christmas and arenow offering up to 70 per cent off furniture, shoes and clothing.

The traditional high street stores, boasting discounts of up to50 per cent, drew the biggest crowds on Monday, but there were nolong queues at the checkouts.

By the early afternoon, the city centre had become busier.

Currys in Union Street was …