THOUSANDS of Boxing Day shoppers were set to cram into Glasgow's stores today in a bid to bag a bargain.

City streets were expected to be busy from the early hours as bargain hunters rush to the sales on the Style Mile.

Retailers were hoping to see their biggest Boxing Day boost in five years, with record numbers of shoppers predicted.

High street stores and out-of-town malls are also hoping for a post-Christmas sales surge.

Although some shops launched their sales last week, the majority waited until today to slash their prices.

It is predicted one in five Scots will hit the shops today - spending around £150million - during the sales frenzy.

Scott Taylor, chief executive of Glasgow City Marketing Bureau said: "We are confident that the Boxing Day sales will be the best for the past five years."

Next, at the corner of Queen Street and Argyle Street, was expected to be a popular destination for bargain hunters who usually queue from 5am to catch the best of the sale items.

The same scene was also expected at the fashion chain's other branches in Buchanan Galleries, Silverburn, Braehead and Glasgow Fort, with all stores opening at 6am.

Department store Debenhams today launched its largest half-price sale in its 200-year history, with £190m of savings on offer.

The retailer opened the doors of its 155 stores, including its Glasgow branch on Argyle Street - at 7am.

Braehead, Silverburn and Glasgow Fort, were also expecting brisk early sales.

rebecca.gray@ heraldandtimes.co.uk