SHOP tills in Blackburn and Burnley have been jingling as retailers report a better than expected run-up to Christmas.

Traders large and small have seen a growth in footfall with four gift and food buying days still to come.

Chris Gribben, general manager of Burnley’s Charter Walk Shopping Centre, said: “Retailers have had a successful run up to Christmas with the four biggest days yet to come.

“We appear to have had more shoppers spending a little less, but we hope that means they have got something left to spend in the coming days.

“It has been on a par or better than last year.”

Blackburn Mall general manager Loraine Jones said: “Overall we have been up every week throughout the build up for Christmas.

“Sunday’s have seen an increase.

“Retailers say shoppers are spending more and are in the festive spirit.

“We are looking forward to the traditional rush over the next few days.”

Blackburn Market commercial manager David Smith said: “This week has been good so far and we are confident the extra Sunday on the run up to Christmas will end the year on a high.

“Last week we saw a decrease, however the two weeks prior saw a good increase.

“Traders have been really pleased with the takings on the Sundays.”

Darwen Market manager Gwen Sangster said: “So far trade has been pretty good, about the same as last year.”

Burnley Chamber of Trade president Brian Hobbs said: “It’s looking pretty good so far this Christmas, better than last year.

“Footfall is good and seems to be up on 2012.

“We’re hopeful shoppers will be out again in the next few days for last minute purchases”

Blackburn with Darwen Chamber of Trade president Tony Duckworth said: “It’s looking like a pretty good Christmas and traders in Blackburn town centre have benefitted from the free parking after three.

“Overall it seems to be a good festive season. ”