SHOP owners and pub landlords in Evesham have expressed their joy at being able to welcome back customers after the country entered the next step of the government's roadmap out of lockdown.

Non-essential shops, hairdressers, and gyms were able to reopen on Monday as restrictions begin to ease.

Pubs were also able to welcome back customers in an outdoor setting.

Nigel Smith, landlord of The Fleece Inn at Bretforton said it was ‘absolutely fantastic’’ to reopen.

He said: “We took the decision to introduce new technology including our ordering system and that worked out really well for us and the sun shone.

“It was a bit concerning waking up to some snow, but the sun came out and we’ve had lots of lovely feedback from people who are very pleased to be back with us.

“We are going to be busy over the next few weeks but we’re looking forward to seeing customers old and new and getting into the summer of enjoyment and meeting old friends, so it’s going to be a good time.”

Paulina Krukowska owns Beauty Shadow salon in Vine Street which reopened on Monday.

She said: “It was absolutely fantastic to be back to work.

“It was a very long day but it was so amazing to see happy clients and to see familiar faces and to have a chat with them, it was a fantastic feeling.

“My diary is full until the end of May which is great and I’m so lucky to have such wonderful and loyal clients, their support throughout this lockdown was amazing.

“I love routine and I’m so happy to be back to my schedule.”