KNUTSFORD town centre businesses need your custom and support, and can't wait to see you again.

That's the appeal from town centre and marketing officer Sandra Curties as cafes, pubs, restaurants and salons prepare to reopen tomorrow as lockdown restrictions ease.

Sandra said: "Whether a venue is re-opening immediately or in the near future it is a big decision for all involved.

"It won't be a decision made lightly or in haste. Not everyone is reopening straight away as they may still be getting ready to welcome you back safely.

"Check with each venue before you decide to pop in; check their social media or give them a call.

"Many will be operating a booking system (possibly even for a drink), and reduced capacity to ensure adequate distance between customers - to keep you and them safe.

"This is unchartered territory for all, so please be patient. However, all need your custom and support and can't wait to see you again.

"If you think a venue is doing something that isn't quite right - let them know politely and directly - they will welcome your feedback.

"They may not appreciate a bad Trip Advisor review on their first night opening after three months.

"So perhaps not your normal night out but an opportunity to break bread, raise a glass and not have to wash it up for the first time in months."

Knutsford Guardian:

A picture created for The Tea Room by Ali Holah

Gaynor Qualter at The Lord Eldon said: "We will be open on Saturday, July 4 at 11am.

"We have done lots of measures to keep us and you safe, we will be practising one-metre social distancing, taking thermal temperatures when you arrive and operating a track and trace taking your details.

"We need to retain these details for 21 days, thereafter they will be destroyed.

"We are also operating a new app to allow you to order from your smart phone; we will then bring your drinks to the table.

"We have new gazebos in our garden to allow you to enjoy our rear beer garden, and are looking forward to seeing you all."

Sue Henry at The Tea Room said: "Thank you Knutsford for your fabulous support during lockdown.

"We have loved delivering our cakes and afternoon teas and being a part of people’s celebrations during this challenging time. We really appreciate the loyalty of all our customers, both old and new.

"We’re excited and a bit nervous to be reopening on Saturday, July 4.

"Walk-ins are welcome but please book a table to avoid disappointment. We’ll continue to offer our take away deliveries, as we appreciate many people will still require them. We look forward to seeing you all."

Locktons of Knutsford said: "We are opening on July 4, and can’t wait. The staff have been split into two bubbles to minimise exposure of staff and customers to each other, so the salon hours are 9am to 8pm seven days a week for July and August.

"We have been working really hard. The salon has been totally gutted and cleaned, clutter removed, everything bleached, workstations measured out and reduced, risk assessment done, extra barbicide jars, bins, tissues, wipes and sanitiser, PPE ordered, signs put up.

"All of our staff will be wearing a freshly-washed gown for each customer, a visor or a mask.

"Gloves will also be worn except during a cut after the hair has been washed. Customers will be asked to attend appointments wearing a mask.

"Breaks from the mask will be possible during your appointment when customers and staff are not face to face. We have masks available to purchase for £1.50 if you do not have your own.

"Thank you for your continued support and understanding. We cannot wait to see you all on Saturday."