Northern Ireland ? Recession fears across Europe have consumers spending less and retailers fearful of the future. But one Northern Ireland border town is enjoying the biggest shopping spree in its history.

A record-strong euro and deepening recession in the neighboring Republic of Ireland have turned Newry in recent months into the most intensively shopped spot in Ireland — if not the continent. The 5-mile traffic jams and patience-shattering hunts for a parking spot are already the talk of the island.

The phenomenon could reach its peak this weekend before Christmas as tens of thousands travel from up to 12 hours’ drive away to cash in on Northern Ireland shops pricing goods in record-cheap British pounds.