LATE night shopping is being introduced in Durham to encourage people to make more use of the historic city centre.

Many shops will be opening until 7pm every Thursday, instead of closing their doors at 5pm or half past.

The move is designed to fit in with people’s changing shopping habits and counter the rise of online purchasing, which has seen people abandoning high street stores across the country.

Mark Solan, manager of Woven, the menswear store, said: “People are working longer hours now and we are finding weekends are getting busier and busier.

“We find people are ringing us up to see if they can come in on an evening because it is hard if you do not finish work until 5.30pm yourself.

“People want to come in and they want to spend their money but they want us to spend time with them.

“You do not get that online. People want to be served properly.”

To mark the first night of late night opening, there will be special Fashion InDurham event hosted by Durham Business Improvement District across the weekend.

On Thursday, 2pm-7pm, and on Saturday and Sunday shoppers, from 11am-4pm, will have the chance to discuss and get advice from an expert about their personal style and this season’s trends.

Belinda Alexander, a skilled stylist and personal shopper, will be joined by a second stylist, and both will be in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre to consult with shoppers and offer guidance on any fashion or style questions.

Ms Alexander said: “We are going to be looking after ladies and gents that come to shop with fashion advice.

“We are going to help with figure shapes and what they might need.

“We are going to have a selection from the stores within Prince Bishops and the city.”

Open to both men and women, visitors are able to book a 20 minute appointment online, or can drop-in on the day to see if appointments are available.

Adam Deathe, business engagement manager, at Durham BID, said: “Durham City has a fantastic retail offering, from big name brands to unique independents.

“The start of late night shopping on Thursday, from May 19, will let visitors to the city enjoy all Durham has to offer for even longer.

“Shoppers who prefer not to drive into the city centre will also benefit from Belmont Park and Ride’s extended opening hours until 8pm on Thursdays, making it even easier to make use of the shop’s later opening hours.”