'It's amazing to be back' - Hundreds of local businesses welcoming customers again as lockdown lifts

Non-essential shops, hairdressers, gyms, and pubs with outdoor spaces can reopen.

Shoppers have been out and about in town centres across the area today (Monday 12th April) and market traders have filled the streets in Hinckley (pictured).

Despite the cold weather and reports of snow this morning, people could still be spotted dining outside cafes and restaurants.

Speaking to shoppers and stall holders, the mood was largely positive. 

Stacey Grove, owner of Brambles Vintage Interiors, told Fosse107 that towns like Hinckley and Loughborough had, "lost their heartbeat" with shops being closed.

"I'm really hoping we don't have to close again...we need people back in to shop."

"We should never have closed in the first place"

Like many hairdressers, the doors of Scott Bailye's salon in Earl Shilton have remained closed all year.

This morning (Monday 12th April) he opened at 7am to welcome Mick, his first customer of 2021 and his last customer of 2020.

Mick said, "I couldn't wait to get to back, my hair was far too long and was getting on my nerves."

For Scott, he's been anxious to get back and thinks barbers should never have closed in the first place.

"Hairdressers are one of the safest environments to work in. The safety of the guest and the team is paramount and cleanliness is essential. We all follow the guidelines to keep people safe."

You can hear Scott's thoughts on reopening here:

The demand for haircuts means Scott will have to work 15 hour days for the foreseeable future, taking appointments as early as 7am.

After his trim was finished, Mick booked in his remaining appointments for the rest of the year, evident of the remaining uncertainty customers understandably feel. 

We also spoke to Simon Goodger who owns Hybrid Fitness in Loughborough.

He's feeling, 'positive' about getting gym-goers back, who are ready and raring to go.

"Please stay vigilant..."

Although rates are falling in Leicestershire, the Director of Public Health for the county, Mike Sandys, warned people not to “drop their guard”.

There's definitely an upbeat atmosphere in #Loughborough today. There are some queues, but social distancing is being followed. It is vital we all still follow the rules #handsfacespace pic.twitter.com/IlrAN4gdfo

— Charnwood Borough Council (@CharnwoodBC) April 12, 2021

"The fall in rates is really welcome news and, while we’re definitely getting on top of the pandemic, there’s still a way to go, but all the pointers are definitely in the right direction. 

"The county is starting to open up again - but the effect will also be more people being out and about - so please stay sensible and vigilant and follow the basics around hands, face, space and fresh air."

You can find lots of local businesses on the Fosse107 virtual high street.