Shoppers defied the credit crunch and splashed the cash as they searched for festive bargains at the weekend.

Thousands of people flocked to Brighton city centre to take advantage of the cut in VAT and a High Street sales fightback.

Tills were jingling despite the deepening economic gloom, particularly in stores which had slashed some prices by up to half.

Soozie Campbell, city centre manager, said: “There were plenty of people out and about on both days, although that doesn’t necessarily equate to more sales.

“However, the shops have all put sales on before Christmas which is encouraging spending. Once one cuts prices the others follow suit, like a domino effect.

“I think it could be a mistake on the part of the retailers, though, because people will spend anyway before Christmas, and January sales could take a hit.”

The latest figures showed four per cent more people hit the stores this November than last, defying fears the financial gloom would spark a seasonal slump.

But actual sales are still believed to be down. Meanwhile, auction website eBay reported 27 sales a minute as more and more people hunted for bargains online.

Shopper Natasha O’Mahoney, 28, of Queen’s Park Road, Brighton, said: “I’m trying to get most of my Christmas shopping done fairly early this year and a lot of the shops have got sales on, which is really welcome.

“Everyone is worried about money at the moment, but you can’t cancel Christmas so it’s a matter of finding the right presents at the right price.”

The scene was the same across Sussex as shops in towns including Lewes, Worthing and Eastbourne reported bumper sales.

Kelly Emans, customer services representative at the Churchill Square shopping centre, Brighton, said: “It was chock-a-block on Saturday in particular and the aisles were all absolutely packed all day.

“It took us by surprise to be honest because we thought people would be a bit wary given the economic situation.

All the shops are slashing their prices early and that is obviously having the desired effect and getting people through the doors.”