South Essex went Christmas crazy this weekend as shoppers flocked to get festive gifts for their nearest and dearest.
David Shakespear, manager of Canvey's Knightswick shopping centre, said: "It is just getting busier and busier here as the big day gets closer.
"There are certainly more people coming now then at any other time of the year.
"I wouldn't like to estimate how many will come through the doors next weekend."
Robert Nash, owner of Nash Butcher's in Furtherwick Road, Canvey, said: "It feels like we have had thousands of people come here over the weekend, it has been so busy.
"Our rolled turkey breasts have been extremely popular and we expect that popularity to continue right up to Christmas."
Southend has gained such a reputation for Christmas consumption that stallholders have come from Bavaria to take advantage of long-pockets and europhile patrons.
Anna Raabe, organiser of the German market in Southend town centre said: "More and more people are travelling to Germany to the Christmas markets there. We thought we would bring the market to the people of Southend."
Published Monday, December 16, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article