BUSINESS was booming for many traders in Wanstead and Woodford this Christmas, but some fear what the new year will bring.

The recession has hit our high streets hard, with some popular shops such as Woolworths and Threshers going under.

Many of the area’s long-established stores have continued to thrive, however, with shoppers staying loyal during the downturn.

AG Dennis butchers in Wanstead High Street has done a roaring trade in traditional Christmas fare during the past couple of weeks.

Owner Steve Alsop said he expected to have sold more than 500 turkeys this year, together with dozens of game birds and hundreds of pounds of gourmet sausages.

He said: “We’re doing pretty well at the moment. We have lots of loyal customers and we have seen new younger customers recently too.

“We sell high quality produce, and the level of demand has stayed high. We are very positive about the coming year.”

Peter Fallan, manager of Fiori’s grocers in George Lane, South Woodford, was equally upbeat.

He said: “Christmas trees have been more expensive this year, but people were still buying them.

“People are not going to scrimp on the things that matter at Christmas. We are doing well this year, and we have lots of new ideas for the new year.”

Rachel Root, of The Orange Tree lifestyle store in Wanstead High Street, said: “Sales have been good. We’ve sold lots of Cath Kidston, accessories and interior furnishings.”

But some on Wanstead High Street struck a more cautious note, like John Wishart, of the Simple ‘n’ Natural healthfood shop

He said: “Things have been picking up a bit over the past couple of months. People have been buying Christmas items like organic chocolate and natural oils.

“I’m worried next year will be a difficult one though.”

These views were shared by Gita Bacheta of Jubilee News in Snakes Lane East, Woodford Green, who has serious concerns about the business in the new year.

She said: “Things are worse for us this Christmas. I’m worried about the future.”