Despite the recession - or perhaps because of it - thousands of shoppers hit the high street yesterday to make the most of the pre-Christmas bargains.

Despite the recession - or perhaps because of it - thousands of shoppers hit the high street yesterday to make the most of the pre-Christmas bargains.

At Marks & Spencer - where a one-day 20% off sale meant that everything, excluding food and electricals, was discounted in a bid to boost sales - doors opened as early as 8am.

Earlybird shopper Helen Clarke, from Cambuslang, said: "I've been at it for three hours and it's absolutely hectic. I bought Christmas presents and a jumper for myself. Altogether I've spent £110, but I have saved a lot of money."

Some customers had to wait in queues for up to an hour at the Argyle Street store in Glasgow.

Derek Jaap, from Larkhall, knew exactly what he was coming in for but still had to queue for 40 minutes.

"I was waiting for ages so now I'm wishing I hadn't come," he said.

"People are obviously not feeling the credit crunch, as they are spending all their money and not holding on to anything."

Some shoppers were so keen they were in town specifically for the sale.

Gillian Febers, from Milngavie, left her two children with her mum so she could concentrate on the bargains.

She said: "I've bought Christmas presents but nothing for myself. It was a good idea to start with, but after waiting in a queue behind 40 people I may have changed my mind. It's good Marks & Spencer is giving something back to the consumer."

It was also a family affair for sisters Betty and Ann McLean, both from Glasgow, as they battled it out to get the best bargains.

Betty said: "The sale was great, but really busy - we were queuing for ages. We even waited for 20 minutes to get served for lunch in the cafe. I've not bought any Christmas presents, just gifts for myself. I got a nice dressing gown and pyjamas."

Susan McColgan also sharpened her elbows to fight for the best bargains.

The keen Glasgow customer didn't let the dark financial times trouble her, coming out of the store after spending £120.

She said: "I've come into town especially for the sale to get my Christmas presents. I also bought myself a pair of trousers even though I shouldn't have. My mum was with me but gave up and left the shopping to me."