News: Town centre retailers move to Parkgate

For one day.

Shoppers will get the best of both retail worlds at Parkgate Shopping on Friday when six independent retailers from Rotherham town centre set up shop at the popular destination.

A special "Festive Friday" event from 10am until 3pm on December 14 includes Bittersweet Boutique - accessories and home furnishings; Props Skatestore, Shocolat - a patisserie; Yella Brick Road - fashion and gifts; the Yorkshireman's Deli and the Whistlestop Sweet Shop.

Denis Copeland, Manager of Parkgate Shopping, said: "We all felt that as we complement each other perfectly – the individuality of the small town centre shops and the value and range of our retailers – we should join forces on one day during the busy Christmas period."

Darren McDool from Rotherham Youth Enterprise added: "Although this first event is a pilot, if it proves to be a success as we strongly believe, similar events will be staged next year. Festive Friday represents true collaboration, and retail guru Mary Portas would be proud of our efforts."

Coun. Gerald Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Development for Rotherham Borough Council, added: "Our Markets staff will be setting up the marquees and both Rotherham Youth Enterprise and RIDO staff will be on site throughout the day to promote business support services.

"I am quite sure that visitors to Parkgate Shopping will reap the benefit of such a great collaboration and they can take advantage of the regular free bus which runs throughout the town and through to the retail park and back on a regular basis."

Parkgate Shopping website

Rotherham town centre website

Images: British Land