THERE was a warm welcome in store for shoppers yesterday as many high-street businesses opened their doors for the first time since lockdown.

By 10am the majority of shops in Weymouth town centre reopened with social distancing measures in place, after the Government ordered 'non-essential' shops to close on March 24.

Independent retailers were positively beaming to be back in business.

At St Alban Street, Julia Richards at Bibi's Home said: "It's lovely to be back - at first I was excited to be spending time at home with the kids, but I'm so glad we can reopen and am looking forward to seeing our regular customers again.

"People can come in one or two at a time, and we're asking people not to wear gloves as you wouldn't know how many surfaces they've touched already - instead we're asking them to take gloves off and are providing hand sanitiser instead."

Tony Morris at Rude Not To explained how the clothes and record shop has adapted to lockdown measures. The business has been trading since 1956 and has carved a niche with fans of rock ‘n’ roll, ska and rockabilly music.

"We've been doing a lot of mail and telephone orders - our customers are more like friends and clients - they're keen to chat on the phone and place orders, rather than ordering via our website," Mr Morris said.

"A lot of regulars have been in touch to check we'll be opening today. Many of our regulars grew up shopping here when they were at school and are now in their mid 50s."

The shop is allowing people in one household at a time, and also has screens in place at the counters.

"I also DJ and trade at music festivals and cannot wait for that first festival after lockdown - although I don't think it will be until next year," Tony added.

At Howleys Toymaster, manager peter Healey explained that the business model has expanded online since lockdown.

"I'm super excited to be back open," he said. "While we've been closed we've made lots of improvements inside the shop, for example in the trains and models sections, and are delighted to welcome people back in.

"As well as click and collect we've been selling to people around the UK via our website and telephone ordering. Measures in place in store include tape on the floor for social distancing, and hand sanitiser."

Ann at Victoria Ann Bridal said the shop is open for appointments only. "It's not the best start as we've only been open since September. One lady is coming in today after seeing a dress here four months ago - she got in touch to ask if it's still in stock and is delighted to be able to come and try it on today.

"We're hoping weddings will restart in August but also sell prom, 'junior miss' and mother of the bride dresses."

Despite the majority of shops reopening, charity shops in the town centre remained closed. One member of staff said they had been told the premises could not open due to the shop floor not being large enough for social distancing, but that they hoped to open soon.

Weymouth BID / We Are Weymouth and the Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce are calling on residents to support local businesses.

Claudia Webb from We Are Weymouth said: "Local businesses need our help - now more than ever. Some are barely surviving having furloughed employees, or worse, having to lay off employees.

“Weymouth’s Totally Locally initiative is all about encouraging people to remain loyal to the connections they have formed with local independents over the past months.

"During lockdown we have seen local independents come up with inventive ways to benefit their communities. Some set up online shopping facilities or provided click and collect and home delivery services. We must recognise their efforts and maintain these relationships.

"As Weymouth reopens, we must support our local businesses to give them their best chance for success.

"The Support Local message is being supported by Dorset Council through government funding to support the area’s long-term economic future."

In Dorchester's Brewery Square, businesses including Loco Loves, Stems Florist, Gallery On The Square, Woods Furniture, Vinyl Van, Jacqueline’s Pre-Loved Boutique, Margo and Mya, Copper Street Brewery, Maxgate Properties, Gallery On The Square and Dorset Hideaways are opening their doors this week.

Additional health and safety measures at the square include sanitising stations, floor stickers and daily door handle cleaning.

With visitor and staff wellbeing at front of mind, Brewery Square has also made the decision for fountains to remain switched off until next year.

Charlotte Spracklen, centre manager at Brewery Square, said: “We’re pleased to see more of our retailers beginning to open their doors once again to the public and will be working closely alongside them to ensure they feel supported. Together, we look forward to welcoming shoppers back to Brewery Square to experience a safe, enjoyable day out.”