An NR3 street packed with independent businesses is offering Christmas shoppers the chance to avoid the busy crowds at its late-night opening event.

With mulled wine, nibbles and lots of festive deals, businesses along St Augustines Street will be open throughout the evening on Saturday, December 17. 

It has been organised by the owner of Norfolk Retro, Laura Budds, who hopes to attract more people to this "up and coming" part of the city.

Norwich Evening News: St Augustines Street businesses will host a late night shopping event on December 17St Augustines Street businesses will host a late night shopping event on December 17 (Image: Laura Budds)

She said: "It's an alternative option for people who don't want to head into the city centre so close to Christmas.

"They can treat themselves or buy last-minute gifts, but it's also a great opportunity to meet the amazing businesses along this street."

Up to 20 businesses will be involved in the event - opening from 5pm until 8pm. 

Among them will be Norfolk Retro, the Hashery, Jipola the florist, Mizu-Usagi, the print studio Cardinal Hand, the Catherine Wheel pub and Frå.kost the Danish cafe. 

Norwich Evening News: The late night Christmas shopping event on St Augustines Street has been organised by Laura BuddsThe late night Christmas shopping event on St Augustines Street has been organised by Laura Budds (Image: Laura Budds)

Each business will open with its own festive twist and offerings.

Ms Budds added: "A lot of people still haven’t discovered this area and they don’t know about all of the independent businesses along here.

"We just thought it would be good to get some publicity for the street and make sure we are all open at the same time so there is a lot on offer for people as well.

"We are all really excited."