HEALTH and beauty store Boots was the top destination for Christmas shoppers in Huddersfield, a survey has revealed.

Research agency Ask Insight, based at the Media Centre, carried out a “snapshot” survey into local shopping habits of Huddersfield people throughout the festive period.

When it came to looking for gifts, Boots proved the most popular high street store with 16% stating they spent more money there than at any other store.

And while 25% of those polled used online shopping, this was seen as complementary to traditional retail shopping – further evidenced by an average online spend of £190 against a £400 average spend on the high street.

The humble turkey was still the number one choice for Christmas dinners with 46% of those surveyed.

Sainsbury's was the most popular supermarket for the Christmas food shop in Huddersfield with 24% of those polled buying their festive food at the store.

Unwanted gifts were received by 38% of those questioned with socks, cheap cosmetics and “bad” clothes topping the list of least welcome presents.

However, the ‘spirit of giving’ is intact with 23% of respondents prepared to use their unwanted gifts as a present to someone else.

The survey showed that Huddersfield shoppers are made of strong stuff – with 59% saying the severe weather in December did not stop them from shopping in the town.

Only 3% of those polled went out of town to buy their presents – with Manchester and Leeds the most popular destinations.

Ask director Susan Kenyon said: “The survey showed that a wide range of shopping options available in Huddersfield kept people loyal to their town centre.”