Thousands set to hit shops for Boxing Day sales

Hundreds of thousands of people are set to hit the high street in search of a festive bargain today as popular chains slash their prices by up to 50%.

Online shoppers have already snapped up some goods on Christmas Eve but to lure people to the high street, some stores are laying on food and entertainment.

Harrods is kicking off its winter sale with the promise of mugs of hot chocolate, smoked salmon canapes and blankets to keep people warm in the queue, all while being serenaded by a string quartet and watching a performance by street magician Dynamo.

Department stores Selfridges and Liberty will be offering designer goods at a fraction of their usual price, while both Next and Marks & Spencer are boasting a discount of up to 50% on sale items.

If previous years are anything to go by, keen shoppers will start queuing up from the crack of dawn on Boxing Day to be first in line.