CHRISTMAS shoppers are packing into Bolton town centre as the rush to buy presents nears its climax.

The swarm of shoppers crammed into hig street shops such as Marks and Spencer and Woolworths -- and came out loaded down with bags and parcels.

And the thousands of people out shopping last night were a welcome sight for anxious retail managers.

Nationally, Marks and Spencer have complained of slower spending, especially in women's fashion, fuelling fears by retailers that they will have surplus winter stock.

But many Bolton shoppers disagree, saying they will spend the next few days making last minute purchases. Many shops were due to stay open late again tonight and on Monday in the countdown to the big day. Many local people are blaming the pressures of work for the reason they are leaving it so late to buy this year.

Some tired-out shoppers spoke to the Bolton Evening News yesterday about why they were shopping with just six days to go before Christmas Day.

Teacher Lynn Attwood, aged 45, admitted that her shopping always starts on the last day of term.

"I find I don't get the time to go shopping before now. Work commitments mean I can't go shopping during the day. Late night shopping is great. I think teachers do find it hard to do Christmas shopping."

Gill Alergant, aged 53, said: "I work long hours and don't get the time to Christmas shop like I used to do."

Mum-of-three Mrs Jacqui Murty said: "I spend more and more each year. It's rubbish what the retailers are saying. People are spending but they are just leaving it a little late."

Jane Franklin, aged 41, of Halliwell, had spent six hours shopping in Bolton and said budget constraints had resulted in her late Christmas spending spree. She said: "I wish I could shop earlier. But I never have the money. I also work hard and can't find the time to do it sooner."