MORE THAN 2,000 people visited a department store in Thornbury when it launched its clearance sale yesterday.

The Wilding’s redevelopment sale saw shoppers queuing down the High Street, keen to indulge in the savings on £290,000 of stock.

The sale comes ahead of a temporary close in June, while the property is redeveloped, with Wildings set to reopen in a smaller unit.

The clock tower portion of the building, which the company has previously said will be leased out, has officially been leased to Italian restaurant chain Prezzo, who are looking to open up in the town.

Wildings managing director Peter James, who attended the sale in Thornbury, said: “I am absolutely delighted by how today has gone.

“It’s exceeded expectations. We are absolutely delighted and grateful for the support we have seen from our customers.

“Despite everyone needing to queue to get into the store, everyone has been good natured and patient.

“There’s been a wonderful atmosphere. People are pleased it is a redevelopment sale and not a closing down sale.”

Mr James said: “I am delighted to have concluded this deal with Prezzo who are very professional operators.

“For a company of their stature to want to trade and invest in Thornbury is a real vote of confidence and I hope their lead will kick start further regeneration in the town.

“Town centres are changing for a whole host of factors. In all the towns which have done well recently the common factor has been that leisure operators are leading the way. Restaurants, patisseries, coffee shops and other leisure and service businesses are now an essential part of the emerging town centre mix.”

Mr James confirmed that the agreement with Prezzo will result in some much needed investment in the property, and that a scheme will be developed between the parties “that is sympathetic and respectful to the building and is appropriate for Thornbury”, highlighting the dependence on planning permission being obtained.

He added that Thornbury “still retains a certain vibrancy and I am optimistic that the redevelopment of our building will add momentum to this.

“Although I am very sad that we are no longer able to make a profit as a department store I am convinced that our current project will be an exciting new addition".

Prezzo were unavailable for comment.