Almost half a million shoppers have boosted trade at Highcross Leicester in the last seven days alone, making it the busiest week of the festive season - and indeed the year - so far. 

A massive 300,000 people passed through the doors from Monday to Friday alone last week, with an exceptionally busy weekend boosting figures even further.

Footwear is proving popular, with a 17 per cent increase in sales compared to those in the same week in 2009. However, jewellery appears to be the choice gift this Christmas, with sales up by more than 20 per cent compared to those of last year. 

Also up this year are sales in health and beauty, men's fashion and toys and games.

Jo Tallack, general manager at Highcross, said: "During the first full week in December we've seen a real soar in visitors, which has increased trade by a massive 14 per cent compared to the week before. Pandora jewellery is proving to be one of the most popular Christmas gifts again this year, being sold at both Francis & Gaye and Argento within the centre. 

"Compared to last year, trade was up by seven per cent last week, which - in this climate - is a fantastic achievement for all of our retailers."

Highcross is expecting more than two million visitors over the festive season, with many of them visiting during Highcross' extended opening hours on weekday evenings.  

For the second consecutive year, Santa has proved to be a popular attraction, with his Grotto opening on the Lower Mall. There is also an EA Games road show located outside Debenhams until December 19 and - during Christmas week - visitors can have their photos taken inside a giant snow globe.