STAFF at Conroys had to be wide awake to keep pace with the demands of insomniacs and bargain hunters who queued up from midnight at a special midsummer event.

Conroys, which has outlets in North Shields, Stanley, Washington, Gateshead MetroCentre, Teesside, Darlington and Knaresborough, opened its doors from midnight on Tuesday to mark the longest day with Britain's first ever 24-hour, round-theclock, furniture clearance marathon.

The family owned company, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, offered massive discounts on a hige selection of suites, beds and dining furniture.

Michael Conroy said: "We pride ourselves on being innovativce, but quite frankly I was unsure how the public would respond.

"In fact we were overwhelmed at times and I was delighted by the enthusiasm shown by all our staff, many of whom had to leave the comfort of their beds to work overnight."