'Within five minutes of starting it was as if we had never been shut': shoppers, diners and drinkers head back to the High Street
By The Editor 12th Apr 2021
After the snow came the sunshine... and shoppers, diners and drinkers came flocking back to Godalming High Street this morning.
Red Lion landlord Charlie Neill-Hall pulled the first pint as the clock struck 12, marking the restart of business in the pubs for the first time since Christmas Eve.
"We're all set to go, and looking forward to welcoming people back," he said.
At The Richmond Arms, landlady Diane Crathern said she was slightly apprehensive about the return - but the pub is more than ready, with a marquee with flooring, and tables among the blossom in the pretty hidden garden. There are also heated and lit pods for family groups only until the restrictions are loosened further in May.
"It was a bit worrying to see the snow this morning, but bookings are filling up, and our regulars are looking forward to coming back," she said.
Queues formed outside the barbers as people rushed to spend their money and get their hair trimmed after nearly four months of lockdown.
Charity shops also did a roaring trade, with queues outside as people waited patiently for their shopping fix.
Julie Wagersfield at clothing and homewares store Cassally, in the High Street, said business had been good already.
"It's been fab this morning," she said. "It's very nice to see everyone, and people are so happy to be out. Within five minutes of starting it was as if we had never been shut."
Godalming Town Council is encouraging people to head back to the town centre and to the Farncombe shops, but is reminding shoppers to abide by the Hands Face Space mantra to keep themselves and others safe.
CHECK OUT OUR Jobs Section HERE!
godalming vacancies updated hourly!
Click here to see more: godalming jobs
Share:
