The half-term holiday gave a boost to Bluewater.

Despite the credit crunch and other economic woes affecting the high street, more shoppers visited the retail and leisure complex last week than in the same period in 2008.

The centre, which celebrates 10 years in business this year, reported a 6.3 per cent increase in footfall.

General manager Andrew Parkinson, said: "Bluewater makes life easy for families with both younger children and teenagers, hence its popularity during school holidays."

He said that the new Disney store, the largest in Europe, and the newly-opened Hollister young fashion store were both attractive to younger people.

A wide range of places to eat as well as the 13,000 free parking spaces and easier access from the A2 made Bluewater a great day out, he added.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Bluewater is planning activities for future school holidays designed to appeal to families.