READERS had their say after after it was revealed footfall in Barrow remained below pre-pandemic levels.

This was according to figures from Google, which uses location data from devices such as mobile phones to track trends in movement.

Mail readers offered their thoughts on Facebook after seeing the news about the lack of footfall.

Amanda Warren said: "There's just not enough shops to make a special journey to town. We need to diversify, and quickly."

John Wadsworth New said: "Probably because the number of stores remains below pre-pandemic levels."

Ange O'Halloran said: "Because all the shops keep closing."

Ruth Turner said: "Only go to the bank when I have to - then back to Dalton - now."

Tony Moon said: "Town is dead."

Kendal: Mint Cake and More said: "It’s a huge concern for town centres all over the country.

"Kendal Business Improvement District is introducing ParkingPerx to fight back and reward people for using local businesses."

Average activity across retail and recreation in Barrow was 25 per cent below pre-pandemic levels across the two weekends - May 8-9 and May 15-16 - prior to the lifting of restrictions on indoor hospitality on May 17.

On the Saturday and Sunday of the bank holiday on May 31, increased activity meant figures were two per cent below normal levels.

Then, across the final two weekends with data - July 3-4 and July 10-11 - footfall fell to 11 per cent below pre-pandemic levels.