Queues to get into stores at Boxing Day sales in Westquay

With online shopping deemed by many to be the norm these days, people packed out Westquay and Above Bar Street as big discounts started at many high street stores.

Lush and Lego stores had queues outside before opening, with the cosmetic shop's line still holding strong past midday.

Taking advantage of Boxing Day sales is an annual event for many, such as Harriett West, who was waiting in the queue at Lush after travelling down from Guildford in the morning.

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"We've come down to Westquay every single Boxing Day for the last 10 years," she said.

"A few places have shut down in our shopping centre back home but we have come every year because my mum loves it in Southampton."

West Quay was busy as many heading towards the food court at lunch time. (Image: Newsquest) Harriett explained that having big-name chains like Lego and the new Flying Tiger store sets the city apart.

A mother with two children from the Isle of Wight said that as long as the ferries are running regularly enough, she always comes over on Boxing Day to take advantage of sales.

Shops like Footasylum on Above Bar Street were busy as big sales were advertised. (Image: Newsquest) Above Bar Street was packed, as shops like Footasylum, Sports Direct, River Island and Card Factory all advertised sales up to 50% off.

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The Marlands was quieter, but Westquay was heaving, especially on the elevators towards the food court.

The Marlands was quieter around lunchtime. (Image: Newsquest) "It's great to be busy," said Hannah Marsh, a retail worker in Westquay.

"We have an empty shelf out the back where we keep our click and collect orders, it's just great to have people in store and spending some money face to face."

Having a Saints home game at 3pm against West Ham would have only made the city centre busier on the big discounts day.

There were a few notable absences from the high street on Boxing Day though.

Next - who famously hold a massive Boxing Day sale - was closed in West Quay. (Image: Newsquest) WHSmith remained closed, with a note on the door saying that they will be closed Christmas Day and December 26 to allow staff to have time with their family.

Next - which used to be known for their massive Boxing Day sale - were closed after launching their big new year offers online-only today.

John Lewis in Westquay also stayed shut.