October 26, 2010 12.19 pm This story is over 160 months old

Longer opening hours for Bailgate shops

Christmas shopping: Shops in uphill Lincoln will be opening for longer on Thursdays for the festive season.

Shops in the Cathedral Quarter and uphill Lincoln will be staying open for longer as the festive season draws closer.

The shops along Bailgate, Steep Hill and The Strait will keep their doors open until at least 7pm on Thursdays, from December 9 to 23.

The idea follows on from the results of two previous attempts at keeping the uphill shops open over the Christmas period.

It also follows on from the extended opening times of stores in the city centre, which starts from November 18.

Some shops will also be open late during the Christmas Market (December 2 to 5), where thousands of people visit uphill Lincoln over the weekend, buying gifts.

To mark the occasion, pupils from Cherry Willingham Community School — which is being rebuilt after a fire — will be parading up the hill with LED torches.

Bailgate Guild chairman Michael Collingham said he hopes that it will encourage people to go up the hill and check out the shops, as well as bring in more trade.

“Most businesses will be open until at least 7pm, with some staying open until 9pm or 10pm.

“It’s important we get people up the hill to Bailgate for the late-night opening as it is a much-needed boost for business.

“Times are tough and have been for several years, which is why we need everyone to get behind them.”

Photo: John | Related Report: Lincolnshire Echo