Independents’ Day – shops throw open their doors

Shops, hairdressers, gyms, pub beer gardens, and pavement cafes reopened today as the coronavirus lockdown eased.

A throng of shoppers could be seen joyfully returning for a spot of retail therapy, which delighted Tony Davey, Chair of Stroud & District Chamber of Trade & Commerce, who said: “After a long lockdown, it’s great to see such a positive atmosphere returning.

“I know many businesses have breathed a sigh of relief to finally open today. A huge thanks to everyone who ventured out today to discover their local businesses and restart our local economy.”