THE Black Friday shopping phenomenon arrived in Scotland as internet shoppers splashed £17 million on pre-Christmas bargains.

The festive rush began yesterday as Amazon, John Lewis, Curry's, Apple, Tesco, Asda all cut prices. The British Retail Consortium said the US's Black Friday sales phenomenon – the day after Thursday's Thanksgiving – had finally crossed the Atlantic, with more major retailers than ever offering early Christmas bargains.

Scotland's online sales were expected to nudge £17m yesterday – set to be a Black Friday record – Centre for Retail Research and Office of National Statistics figures indicated.

Amazon slashed 1000 items by up to 70% until tomorrow, including the £99 Kindle Fire down from £129.

Apple cut 10% off prices, John Lewis matched Apple and Curry's undercut some Apple prices until Monday, also lopping £500 off a £1500 Samsung TV.

Asda Direct cut up to 42% off items until tomorrow and Tesco offered bargain toys and gifts.

A British Retail Consortium spokesman said: "UK retailers have shown more interest than before, with more Black Friday discounts than previous years."