SHOPPERS are poised to pounce on this year's Black Friday deals as the new Zara opens today at the Westgate Centre.

The Spanish clothing giant has opened its new Oxford branch just in time for the popular shopping day tomorrow where firms slash prices ahead of Christmas.

The American tradition has in some parts of the UK seen shoppers scrambling over each other to get the best bargains.

In Oxford shoppers are expected to rush to the new 39,500sq ft Zara, replacing the former shop in the Clarendon Centre, as well as new children’s clothes shop Newbie.

However despite the anticipation, the Westgate did not respond to questions regarding extra measures in place for Black Friday.

Also marking its first Black Friday tomorrow is the Orchard Centre in Didcot, which opened a host of new shops in March.

A spokeswoman for that centre said: “We look forward to welcoming visitors for shopping, browsing and socialising this Black Friday, with offers including up to 50 per cent off all departments at New Look, up to 75 per cent off at The Entertainer and discounts throughout the week at Clarks.

“Shoppers can also grab a bite at one of the centre’s restaurants including Didcot’s first Nando’s, Berro Lounge and Wildwood.”

The Orchard Centre also confirmed that it would be bringing in extra staff over the busy weekend and will have parking marshals in place if required.

Elsewhere, Bicester Village has once again bowed out of the annual shopping promotion.

The designer outlet in Pingle Drive has said it is not officially taking part in Black Friday, but has extended promotions hoping to stretch out any rush of shoppers.

The centre's spokeswoman Miranda Markham said: “Bicester Village is already in its magical savings period, which started last Thursday and runs through until Sunday.

“After this time, Bicester Village will continue Winter Reductions until year end."

She added: "“We are always very busy on this last pay weekend before Christmas and we will be taking all the usual traffic precautions in anticipation, including operating off-site park-and-rides and encouraging guests to travel by train.”