Hundreds of thousands of shoppers have pounded the high streets to snap up post-Christmas bargains in a boost for retailers before VAT goes up in the New Year.
Shoppers in London's Oxford Street looking for bargains in the Christmas sales
Shopping centres up and down the country were packed while crowds queued up from the early hours for the first full day of discounts at major retailers.
Department stores John Lewis and Harrods both launched their winter sales today after staying closed on Boxing Day.
Queues formed outside Harrods department store and on Oxford Street in central London as early as 6am.
Shopping centres and high streets across Britain were packed yesterday despite only being open for six hours because of Sunday trading laws.
With VAT going up from 17.5% to 20% on January 4, many bargain hunters have been eyeing pricier items such as electronic goods and furniture.
Shoppers in London had to contend with a 24-hour Tube strike but crowds still descended on the West End where prices were slashed by up to 70%
