Next Returns Policy? Will they exchange past season stock?

[hownow]

I have a handful of items purchased in the last big sale which my child refuses point blank to try on let alone wear (I've tried many times over the last couple months!). Everything is brand new with tags, obviously.

Will they allow me to return them and exchange for something my child chooses in store or am I being crazy to even consider it?

I once took a totally impractical, too big dress back that was bought as a present for dd. Bought from another Next store miles away.
The assistant looked at it blankly, clearly thinking it was old stock but did refund/exchange. I think I kept it for at least 4 months before I thought sod it, might as well ask.

Ok, maybe I'll call in advance and ask. Don't really want an awkward, embarrassing conversation in store!

I changed a sleepsuit which was a gift for DD about 9 months after we got it with no issue; we had to have a credit but that was the only limitation. Not sure if the same is true for sale items though.

Their usual returns period is 28 days but is usually shorter during sales. Why would they want it back now?