Black Friday traffic causing gridlock in Portsmouth as shoppers flock to Gunwharf Quays

The M275 heading into the city centre is experiencing severe congestion this morning. 

While the roads around Gunwharf Quays have also been hit by traffic as shoppers flock to the area to bag a bargain. 

The car park at the shopping centre is full, it has been announced. 

With motorists being advised to park in the Park and Ride and Wickham Street car park. 

Alfred Road and the A3 in the centre of Portsmouth, near the University, are also experiencing heavy traffic '“ according to Google Maps. 

HMS Diamond is also returning home to Portsmouth today after a two-month mission. 

What is Black Friday? 

Black Friday is the name given to the day after Thanksgiving in America. 

It is the fourth Friday of November and it is the start of the Christmas shopping season in the US. 

The name has been used since 1952 - but did not become widely used until the 2000s. 

Retailers often offer sales on Black Friday to encourage shoppers to get out and shop. 

And the retailers at Gunwharf Quays are offering amazing deals for shoppers. 

Other business taking part include Amazon. who are once again at the forefront of Black Friday sales - turning it into a week long event, with new deals starting every couple of hours. 

John Lewis, Argos, Very and Currys PC World are also taking part in Black Friday.