Getting used to a new way of shopping

Godalming is slowly opening back up for business, although things have changed on the High Street.

The town council has banned parking in the High Street as part of its measures to ensure people adhere to social distancing rules, and the street has been closed to all traffic, except permit holders and delivery vehicles.

The pavements have also been marked out with social distancing reminders, and signs reinforce the message about keeping your distance and staying safe.

And, of course, there are queues, with shops limiting the number of customers allowed in at any one time.

Security contractors working on behalf of Godalming Town Council are manning a barrier at the Queen Street end of the High Street.

Nub News caught up with Lee and Tony (pictured) as they worked to ensure townspeople and shoppers complied with the new rules.

The pair are on patrol from 10am to 4pm each day, "just to keep an eye on things, to make sure people aren't gathering in large groups," Tony told us.

"A couple of cafes put tables and chairs out on the pavement and we have had to stop them doing that."

Lee added: "We do our bit when the schools are kicking out. We patrol near Moss Lane from 3.15 to 3.30pm to make sure parents can pick up their children without any problems."

"People are being good and sticking to the rules, and it was quiet when the pubs opened up, so we haven't had any real problems," Tony added.

A town council spokesman said: "Godalming Town Council has agreed to support the implementation of the temporary prohibitions and restrictions authorised by the Highways Authority, and will provide staff to manage the access barrier to the High Street between 10am and 4pm Monday to Saturday for a period of up to six weeks.

"Access to the High Street will be restricted between 10am and 4pm Monday to Saturday from its junction with Queen Street to the junction with Church Street at The Pepperpot. Access for residents, town centre workers and deliveries will be controlled at the High Street barrier between 10am and 4pm. Please note that access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times.

"In supporting our community as we ease out of the current lockdown we will do our best to ensure that any disruption or inconvenience to town centre residents and businesses is kept to a minimum, and will keep restrictions under review."