SHOPPERS flocked to the city this morning as the lockdown was lifted and non-essential shops were allowed to re-open.
The city centre was noticeably busier than it has been for the past three weeks, packed with people eager to get a head start on their Christmas shopping on a day branded 'Wild Wednesday' over expectations bargain hunters would hit the city centres.
Queues were seen outside Debenhams in the High Street following the news that all Debenhams shops are set to close after the failure of last-ditch efforts to rescue the ailing store chain.
Susan Coates, 68, was one of the shoppers in the queue with her daughter. She said: "I haven't been out in four weeks. This is the first time. So we thought it would be nice to come and do some shopping. It is such a shame Debenhams will be closing, it is one of our favourite shops and we come here often."
Other keen Debenhams shoppers included Julie Breakwell 53 and Alex Taylor, 26. The mother and son were up and about early Wednesday morning to buy Christmas gifts for their friends and family.
Barbershops were also busy, as was seen after the first lockdown, filled with men looking to get a trim for the first time in four weeks.
Traders reported being really happy to be back.
Owner of Cookmate in Broad Street, Caroline Kirkpatrick said: "We are extremely relieved and excited about re-opening, leaving just 23 days shopping days before Christmas.
"It’s been an extremely difficult year and we have abided by all the Government guidelines to keep all safe, sometimes a little hard to swallow when other shops and garden centres were able to open.
"On a positive note we are very happy to welcome our customers back, we have some fantastic re-opening offers and look forward to seeing you all."
Toys and Games of Worcester owners Tim and Vicky Evans said: "We’re really looking forward to opening and seeing everyone again, this lockdown although shorter, felt longer.
"We’ve been focused on mail order, deliveries and collections over the last month so we’re excited to be focused on people again."
Have you been out and about in the city today? How did you find it?
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