My View, Laurie Barton Wright: Mile of scarves will boost cancer charity

After a cracking Christmas, we are all set for a fabulous year at Frenchgate.
Mile of scarves launch at Frenchgate Shopping CentreMile of scarves launch at Frenchgate Shopping Centre
Mile of scarves launch at Frenchgate Shopping Centre

Feedback from our retailers tells us December into January was busy – indeed, for the festive period we were two per cent up on visits on the previous year and three per cent for car park users But we’re back on it for 2016 already – a quick refresh and ready to rock!

Valentine’s Day, half term and Mother’s Day are all on their way, not to mention Easter. February 14 is not just one for the young lovers or the old romantics – what about us lot in between?! While many barely remember the date until the night before, it’s still an excuse to go all slushy. Single? No fear – we’re great advocates of ‘self-gifting’ here at Frenchgate. Or, if you really have to make an effort for your other half, then Pandora is a sure-fire bet for the ladies, while The Fragrance Shop and Perfume Shop always have some tempting offers.

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Personally, there’s no better way to spend an evening with your head in a box of chocolates – step forward Thornton’s on the lower mall. Oh, and don’t forget a card. Whether going for the comedy angle or declaring your undying love, try Waterstones for something unusual or Lovely Little Gift Shop.

We’re also going a little bit posh and cultured with The Art Curator, so log on to Facebook for a chance to win a bespoke and rather wonderful lovely print.

Now is the time to rejoice when we see glimpses of spring fashion peeking out from woolly jumpers and furry parkas on the rails. In terms of trends, suedette is still huge news for footwear (lace-up, block heels please), the staple bomber jacket (try New Look and now, oh yes, available in print), colour blocking is everywhere and all hail the shirt dress.

Speaking of fashion – let’s talk scarves. In particular, a Mile of Scarves. You may have noticed we are a little bit scarf-mad right now. Check out the scarf chandelier hanging outside Debenhams – more than 1,000 in that alone! But before you think we’re all just having a mass clear-out, it’s not us – it’s you. You’ve been donating your scarves for a good cause – Doncaster Cancer Detection Trust. Once again we’ve teamed up with this brilliant local charity to raise funds to bring cancer treatment to Doncaster.

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They are all being sold or auctioned from February 21 so look out for more details.

And just before we hit the Easter holidays (early this year, folks), half term is within touching distance on February 8.

It can either mean the year’s first holiday for some lucky people (winter sun, bit of après ski?) or a week of housework.

Or you could join us at Frenchgate to meet the Gruffalo on Thursday 11.

* Laurie Barton Wright, manager, Frenchgate Centre