PEOPLE have been out in force in

Taunton

town centre today (Wednesday) following the ending of the nation's second lockdown period.

There was relief from shoppers and traders alike as people went looking for pre-Christmas bargains.

The county town was abuzz as people returned to shopping with the restrictions eased to allow non-essential shops to re-open.

There was a long queue outside Debenhams, which looks set to close by the end of March.

There's a treat in store for shoppers tomorrow with late night shopping starting.

Nigel Pearce, president of Taunton Chamber of Commerce, said: "I hope that shoppers will embrace late night shopping this year, as not only will the extended hours help the retailers to make the most of the festive trading period, but it will also help to maintain a Covid safe environment by extending the available hours to shop and hopefully reduce the need to queue.

"This year more than ever we need to support our local high streets and every opportunity should be taken."