SHOPPERS returned to the town centre this week following the easing of lockdown restrictions in what was described as an “unbelieveable” first day back by retailers.
Queues formed outside barber shops, fully booked hairdressing and beauty salons bounced back into action, shoppers browsed the shelves and aisles of our local shops, and some cafés and pubs opened up their outdoor areas to welcome back customers.
Local resident Gayle Clark took a break from shopping to tell Melksham News, “It feels like a real sense of freedom in the town. It’s wonderful to see so many people out and about – and more importantly, to see everyone supporting local businesses.”
It was the first time since the lockdown began on 5th January that non-essential shops and businesses were allowed to open their doors – and with businesses reporting a “buzz” in the town, it was a relief for many to be back.
“It’s been an unbelievable first day back,” said manager of Dorothy House Furniture Store, Hugh Morrison. “It’s been a fantastic day for sales and donations. Here’s hoping that the momentum, the excitement, keeps going.”
Tops Hair Salon & Beauty kicked off what looks to be a busy few months ahead, with over 1,200 appointments made by clients prior to reopening.
“It’s gone really well!” said Alexandra Stevens and Victoria Stevens from Tops. “It’s fantastic to be back, and great to see the town busy again – there’s a real buzz about the town. We were nervous at first, but as soon as the first client came in, we were like ducks to water. It’s been really lovely to see everybody – and clients are keen to come back, we can’t answer the phones quick enough!”
Owners of Henry’s Home & Café, Jan and Mandy Theron, said, “It’s great to be open again – we want to say thank you for all the support our customers have shown throughout the lockdown and we look forward to welcoming them back.”
Steve Plummer from Holiday and Cruises said, “We are looking forward to seeing our customers again. Appointments are recommended but it’s fantastic to be able to open again.”
Owner of The Toy Shop, Clive Brown, told Melksham News, “It’s been really busy! We’ve seen nothing like this pandemic in the 53 years we’ve been open – it’s nice to be back! Now it’s important that the town is positive and looks forward. Let’s get on!”
And at The Cobbler’s Bench, Nic Clyde and her mother Dot said, “There was a really nice vibe in the town and it was great to some life back in the town. People seem happier – and it was lovely to see people. We had lots of well-wishers popping their heads through the door to say good luck and hello!”
Manager of the Wiltshire Mind charity shop, Bev Harris, said, “It’s been brilliant to reopen and great to see so many people in the shop supporting our charity. Mental health is so important at the moment – look how lockdown has affected so many people’s mental health.”
Manager of the Dorothy House charity shop, Ula Skowronska, said, “It’s been very busy – both sales and donations for the shop. And there was even a queue outside the shop before we opened! It’s great to be open again – the town feels busy too – people on the streets, more traffic.”
