PICTURES: Joy as shoppers return to Chard and Ilminster streets - and pubs

Pubs, hairdressers and non-essential shops were allowed to reopen their doors following a four-month national lockdown to prevent the spread of Covid 19.

Shoppers were quick to return to the high street as the UK continues to go back to normal as part of the Government's plan to ease restrictions.

In Chard, customers flocked to the Choughs pub to raise a pint, with pub manager Steve Morgan saying: “It was very nice to see our regular customers again.”

He added that the majority of punters were well behaved, but people need to remember to observe social distancing and safety measures.

For many businesses the timing was just right.

Anthony Bucke is managing director of Antiques Bazaar in Crewkerne.

He said: “This lockdown was nothing like the first and now the public just really wanted to get back to normal.

“As a nation we had no choice but to reopen to provide the goods and services we’ve been missing.”

CHEERS!: Customers Barry and Mandy Taylor at Choughs in Chard

Mr Bucke added that this lockdown has especially impacted small businesses who are eager to serve people in person again instead of online.

Queues of customers formed outside stores from as early as 9am to support local and independent stores, with crowds gathering at pubs a little later.

Dan Cutts, manager of the Stonemasons in Ilminster, said he is relieved to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

“We’ve had a really positive reaction," he said. "Our staff will be wearing masks and we will provide full table service to keep customers safe.”

He added: “We’re already ready to reopen indoors when we get the green light.”

Next on the calendar for those looking to get back to normal is June 21, when almost all restrictions could be lifted under the Government's roadmap.

OPEN: Amanda Webb and Theresa Arter from Dovetails, Chard

BUSY: At Styles Hairdressing Salon, Chard

WELCOMING CUSTOMERS: Tabbi Miles and Richard Mitchell of Frame Of Mind, Ilminster