CALLS have been to amend opening hours in Barrow town centre to boost trade.

Mail readers had their say on how they would like to see the town centre change following the departure of several national chains.

Barrovians called for new chains to take over, while some suggested other ways to boost footfall.

Kirsty Middleton said: "How about a pet store that actually sticks pet food? Or a Co-op so I can grab a pint of milk and something for tea on my way home from work?

"I’d love to see a HobbyCraft, or other hobby shop.

"What about a restaurant with a patio, to bring people in and make it feel like it has a pulse?

"And how about addressing the hours of business so that households that work have a chance of coming to town after work.

Why shops are open 9-5 when most people work 9-5 blows my mind."

Beverley Dixon said: "All local businesses should be given a chance to take over these empty shops to get people back into our town.

Karl Fursey said: "HMV. Cumbria lacks them with only branches in Workington and Carlisle, or Lancaster the nearest to Barrow I believe.

Heather-Marie Smith said: "Ann Summers or a Victoria’s Secret - not really anywhere to buy nice lingerie anymore.

"Wouldn’t mind seeing a bowling or an adventure golf place too."

Janet McMurray said: "Clothes shops for definite."

Carol Wilson Thomson said: "Mark's and Spencer foodhall , Co-op, H&M, Peacocks."

Patricia Farnen Parks said: "More clothes shops not just New Look.

"Love New Look but need more choice for our teenagers.

Tina Singleton said: "HMV as we always go to Lancaster or Blackpool."

Ange O'Halloran said: "Millie's Cookies and Paperchase."

Geoff Waters said: "Tesco, Asda and the full monty M&S."