Businesses ready to reopen

Two Wetherby business owners have said that they are looking forward to welcoming customers when permitted by Government guidelines next month.
Bookshop owner Keira Andrews. Picture : Jonathan GawthorpeBookshop owner Keira Andrews. Picture : Jonathan Gawthorpe
Bookshop owner Keira Andrews. Picture : Jonathan Gawthorpe

The Roadmap out of Lockdown was announced last week and step two, no earlier than April 12, will include the opening of non-essential retail.

Wetherby’s new independent bookshop, Reading Roots, owner Keira Andrews said she is waiting with bated breath for the date.

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“The bookshop opened at the start of December and we were only able to open for three weeks before the lockdown hit,” she said.

“Although we have been running a click and collect scheme for the last couple months, we are eagerly awaiting the day that we can welcome the community back in the shop to browse.”

She added that they have been busy planning events.

“Our first virtual author event is happening over zoom on Wednesday March 3, and our Wetherby Book Hunt will be taking place this Saturday, March 6, across the town.

“But nothing quite beats the opportunity to introduce ourselves to the town, become familiar with our regular customers, or to set up book clubs and writing groups.

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“I opened the bookshop with the community to mind, and am looking forward for fulfilling its purpose as a community bookshop.”

From April 12 hospitality, rules state that venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors and there will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks and no curfew.

Customers, however, must order, eat and drink while seated and wider social contact rules will apply to prevent indoor mixing between different households.

Catherine Spence, of SantAngelo’s in Wetherby, said they were looking forward to welcoming customers back.

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“We are delighted to be reopening our outdoor area and conservatory, with retractable roof on Monday April 12 at 10am.

“We are very much looking forward to welcoming our customers back at SantAngelo’s.

“The third lockdown has been an incredibly difficult and an extremely worrying period for myself and all our staff.

“However, we are very grateful to everyone that has supported our takeaway service during this period, which has helped our business survive the pandemic and delighted that all our employees will be returning to work.

“Our takeaway delivery service will continue. “

April 12 will also see the opening of hairdressers and nail salons, libraries and community centres, indoor leisure facilities such as gyms and outdoor attractions.

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