Visitors numbers to Totally Tools, DIY and Secure this year were slightly up on 2008.
Total visitor numbers for day one of the show were up 7% on the first day of the show in 2008.

Overall, visitor numbers increased by 1%, which was: "Welcome, in such a tough trading climate," according to exhibition director James Murray.

He added: "We know it's been tough trading conditions for everyone, but we hoped retailers would come out in significant numbers to focus on new products and meet with suppliers, and it looks as though that's what's happening."

He also thanked the marketing effort of his colleagues at Brintex, the show's owner, adding: "We remain committed to the DIY, tools and security sectors, and we have spent more on advertising the show this year than ever before.

"We have innovated in terms of pre-show promotion and in the look and layout of the show - and we hope that will continue to deliver results over the next two days."