Traders and shoppers cash in on sales day

Any fears that austerity might take the wind out of the sales were banished yesterday as bargain hunters flocked in their thousands to major stores and retail outlets around the country.

Traders reported strong sales figures as millions of euro and gift vouchers were exchanged at the nation’s tills.

Large queues formed outside several department stores in Dublin including over 150 brave souls outside Arnotts on Henry Street and a similar number at Brown Thomas on Grafton Street in advance of their 9am opening.