Christmas shopping cheaper in North

CHRISTMAS cheer is cheaper in Northern Ireland, according to a price survey carried out by a consumer watchdog body.

The European Consumer Centre in Dublin carried out a price comparison between Argos stores in Britain, the North and the Republic. Despite the hefty exchange rate where €1 will buy you 70p sterling, Argos in Northern Ireland was up to 20% cheaper for certain items.

The survey of 21 popular Christmas presents found consumers could save anything from €3 to €25 on items such as espresso machines, cameras and bed linen. Not one of the surveyed items was more expensive.