SUPPORT has grown for traders in Bluewater to be allowed to close on Boxing Day and have a two-day Christmas holiday.

Last week News Shopper reported how traders have hit out because they are being forced to open on Boxing Day and the centre was "crucifying Christmas".

We revealed how businesses had to open because flagship store Marks & Spencer wanted to although it is closing this year.

Traders also said they face fines if their doors remained closed.

Now traders and employees have expressed their support and have called for Bluewater to give them their Christmas back.

Beryl Hatch, who works for crystal products and jewellery firm Swarovski, says everyone in the centre is of the same mind they are opposed to Boxing Day opening.

The 56-year-old said: "If we all did not open could they fine us all?

"It's a bit ironic about Marks & Spencer being the shop which started it they dragged us all into this.

"It was more or less said you will have to work on Boxing Day but this was management, not the workers who stand on the shop floors doing the work."

A store manager in Bluewater too scared to be named said: "I don't want to open Boxing Day.

"I am really pleased it has gone in the newspaper."

Greenhithe resident Gwen Tripp recently hit out at the Boxing Day opening, saying the centre's neighbours are trapped in their homes by the thousands of vehicles it attracts.

She said: "The customers would not bother if you don't open.

"I was thrilled how the shops supported us as they did and they are dead right."

But USC fashion shop manger Vicky Ward said: "I am happy to open on Boxing Day.

"Customers all have their pockets lined with Christmas money."

A Marks & Spencer spokesman said the traders who say they are forced to open on Boxing Day should discuss the issue with the centre.

She said: "I don't think this is anything to do with Marks & Spencer.

"Every year we decide what the trading hours are over Christmas.

"We don't automatically open."

A spokesman for Bluewater said: "As previously stated, Bluewater's decision to trade on Boxing Day is driven each year by the demands and expectations of retailers and shoppers alike.

"The decision to open was taken in May by the retailers.

"Retailers are not subject to any financial penalties if they choose not to open."