STORE lettings at the Spinning Gate Shopping Centre in Leigh are almost at capacity following the opening of two major high street names.

Shoe Zone has opened an 1,800sq ft unit and newsagents Cannings has joined forces with WH Smith Local in an 1,860sq ft shop venture providing an extended product range of confectionery, stationery, books and magazines.

Centre manager Ayrton Westwood said: “Despite the fluctuation in the fortunes of some major retailers, our centre trades like an oasis within the borough.

"Fingers crossed we are building up to an exciting Christmas shopping period because we now have such a diverse mix of high street names and independent shops.

"It is now even easier to get into the town with the opening of the guided bus link, it is easy to park with extended periods of free parking available and it is easy to get around as everything is on one level.”

Cannings owner Anthony Cannings added: "I have been planning this franchise for almost two years. so this is a huge step for us.

"Cannings has been in Leigh since 1981. We have traded through some difficult times which has seen Leigh’s retail offer go through a massive transformation.

"It is all about adapting the business to suit the modern demands of our customers and we are very proud of this partnership as WH Smith is such a highly respected name.”