TODAY, Monday, is a momentous occasion as non-essential shops are able to reopen for the first time in months alongside outside hospitality, gyms, hairdressers and salons.

In Knutsford, posters have been specially designed by the council in conjunction with Bella Marketing and Design to remind shoppers to continue to follow Covid-19 safety rules.

The council is also installing external sanitiser stations across the town centre to ensure that shoppers can easily keep their hands sanitised while supporting local businesses.

To add an air of celebration and hope for the gradual easing of restrictions the town bunting will be installed early this year.

Photographer Martin Rickett visited the town over the weekend to capture just a few of the businesses which were preparing to open their doors.

Florist Jo Ashton, owner of The White Orchid in Knutsford, Cheshire, is pictured adjusted the open sign on her shop door as she prepares to welcome back customers to her boutique.

Harriet Henry, manager of The Tea Room in Knutsford, also gets ready to hang an open sign outside her cafe ahead of opening outdoor hospitality.

Meanwhile, spa assistant Kieran Wilson gets ready to welcome back residents to Cottons Hotel and Spa.

Spa assistant Kieran Wilson prepares the pool for socially distanced swimming at Cottons Hotel and Spa - PA Images

Spa assistant Kieran Wilson prepares the pool for socially distanced swimming at Cottons Hotel and Spa - PA Images

Spa assistant Kieran Wilson cleans weights in the gym at Cottons Hotel and Spa - PA Images

Spa assistant Kieran Wilson cleans weights in the gym at Cottons Hotel and Spa - PA Images

Spa assistant Kieran Wilson prepares the pool for socially distanced swimming at Cottons Hotel and Spa - PA Images

Spa assistant Kieran Wilson prepares the pool for socially distanced swimming at Cottons Hotel and Spa - PA Images

Harriet Henry, manager of The Tea Room - PA Images

Harriet Henry, manager of The Tea Room - PA Images

Florist Jo Ashton, owner of The White Orchid - PA Images

Florist Jo Ashton, owner of The White Orchid - PA Images