IT'S Black Friday - so what can you expect?

Shops think it's going to be busy

Shops in Worcester are expecting a busy day as bargain hunters hit the streets for Black Friday.

Local retailers are predicting up to a 40 per cent rise in sales over the Black Friday period, according to Erica Burlace, centre manager at the Crowngate shopping centre.

The hoped-for upturn comes after a slow autumn, she added.

She said: "We're grateful it's a catalyst into Christmas this year off the back of a slowdown over September and October.

"It plays into increased awareness about Black Friday and that people have a choice about when to purchase things online and in-store.

"The expectation from early conversations for retailers is we will have an increase like for like - 10 to 40 per cent increase on sales compared to the same period last year."

"It's the Christmas lights switch-on tonight leading into late-night shopping. This vibrancy in the city centre should now continue through to Christmas and the New Year."

What deals are available?

Shops across Worcester are offering deals including:

Isn't it all electrical goods?

No. First Bus is offering a deal on annual bus tickets.

‘Worcester Plus’ Annual ticket - Normal price £415 – BLACK FRIDAY PRICE £332

‘Wyvern’ Annual ticket – Normal price £700 - BLACK FRIDAY PRICE £560

The ticket is available to buy exclusively at www.firstgroup.com/worcester on Friday.

Sarah East, Head of Operations for First Worcester said: "This is an offer not to be missed. It is a great opportunity for our existing customers to take advantage of a discounted annual ticket, that will provide bus travel for a whole year at less than £1 per day."

“We are confident that this offer will attract new people to give the bus a try."

Plus there is this from Worcester Racecourse:

Any unusual bargains on offer?

Yes. Linden Homes is offering a special Black Friday package.

Homebuyers can receive £10,000 off selected homes, including at Kempsey Mead in Kempsey, Worcestershire.

Sue Scholfield, sales and marketing director for Linden Homes, said: “We know that Christmas is an expensive time of year and we wanted to help during the festive period.

"£10,000 will make a real difference and enable homebuyers to either afford a bit more space or help to reduce the monthly mortgage payments."

What else do I need to know?

Police have warned online buyers to be careful, saying fraudsters may try to trick you with bogus bargains and fake goods.

Cyber Monday, in particular, is a peak time for online fraudsters on the look-out for ways to part consumers from their money, bank details, or personal data.

Detective Superintendent, James Tozer said: "With increased numbers of online shoppers making the most of special offers this weekend, fraudsters will be seeking to take advantage. Fortunately, many scams can be avoided with some simple precautions."

Here's some tips:

1. Trust your instincts and if it feels dodgy, it probably is.

2. Check it's a safe website - avoid clicking on links from unsolicited emails and look for web addresses starting with https (the's' stands for 'secure') and a padlock symbol.

3. Update your anti-virus software, which defends against viruses, malware and other online threats.

4. Never transfer money directly into a seller's bank account

5. Print your receipt and order details - a hard copy can be useful if any disputes arise, or the retailer 'loses' your order after taking your money.